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West African cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, influenced by its diverse cultures and rich agricultural heritage. Among the many delightful dishes that emerge from this region, peanut butter stew stands out as a hearty and comforting favorite. This dish not only warms the body but also tells a story of tradition and community.

West African Peanut Butter Stew

Discover the heartwarming flavors of West African Peanut Butter Stew, a creamy and nutritious dish perfect for spring gatherings or Easter brunch. This easy weeknight dinner combines smooth peanut butter with fresh vegetables, creating a comforting meal that delights the soul. Packed with vitamins and satisfying goodness, it's an ideal way to nourish your family. Try it tonight and embrace the rich culinary tradition of West Africa. Save this for later!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup smooth peanut butter

1 large onion, finely diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes

2 medium carrots, sliced into rounds

1 red bell pepper, chopped into bite-sized pieces

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices

4 cups vegetable broth

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your heat preference)

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Fresh spinach or kale, roughly chopped, for garnish

Fresh cilantro, coarsely chopped, for garnish

Cooked rice or quinoa, for serving

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely diced onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 5 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until they become fragrant.

    Prepare the Vegetables: Add the diced sweet potatoes, sliced carrots, and chopped red bell pepper to the pot. Mix well and allow them to cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.

      Incorporate the Base: Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices and add the smooth peanut butter. Then, stir in the vegetable broth, drained chickpeas, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly until the peanut butter is fully incorporated into the stew.

        Simmer: Increase the heat to bring the stew to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes and carrots are tender when pierced with a fork.

          Finish with Greens: When the vegetables are tender, gently stir in the fresh spinach or kale until just wilted. Taste the stew and adjust the seasonings if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or cayenne as desired.

            Serve: Ladle the hearty stew into bowls, garnishing each serving with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Serve hot over a bed of cooked rice or quinoa to complete the meal.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour | 4-6 servings

                - Presentation Tips: For an attractive presentation, consider serving the stew in deep bowls topped with a small mound of fresh greens and a drizzle of olive oil for an inviting sheen. A sprinkle of crushed peanuts can also enhance the dish's visual appeal.