Peanut Butter Mafe

Background and History

Mafe, also known as groundnut stew, is a comforting West African dish. Its origins lie in the culinary traditions of countries like Senegal, Guinea, Mali, and Gambia. This hearty stew typically features a base of tomatoes and peanut butter, resulting in a creamy, nutty flavor profile. Mafe has spread across various regions, each adding its unique twist, but it remains a beloved staple for its rich taste and nutritional value. Traditionally, mafe pairs excellently with rice, couscous, or fufu and has become a cultural symbol synonymous with gathering and sharing.

Ingredients

• Peanut Butter - 1 cup
• Chicken (or preferred protein like beef or lamb) - 1 kg
• Onion - 1 large, chopped
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Tomatoes (or canned tomato paste) - 4, ripe and chopped
• Vegetable oil - 3 tablespoons
• Sweet Potatoes - 2, peeled and cubed
• Carrots - 2, peeled and sliced
• Red Pepper - 1, sliced
• Cabbage - 1/2 head, chopped
• Water - 2 cups
• Salt - to taste
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Cayenne Pepper - 1 teaspoon
• Cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Bay Leaf - 2

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Begin by chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and chopping the tomatoes. Peel and cube the sweet potatoes, and peel and slice the carrots. Slice the red pepper and chop the cabbage. Set these aside in separate bowls.

Step 2: Cooking the Stew

1. In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic and stir for about a minute until fragrant.
3. Include your choice of protein, such as chicken, and brown the pieces on all sides.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they start to break down. If using canned tomato paste, add it instead and sauté for a couple of minutes.
5. Stir in the peanut butter, allowing it to melt and coat the ingredients. Ensure it mixes well with the tomatoes for that rich, nutty taste.
6. Add the cubed sweet potatoes, sliced carrots, sliced red pepper, and chopped cabbage into the pot.
7. Pour in water to cover the ingredients, ensuring you maintain a stew-like consistency.
8. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Add cayenne pepper, cumin, and bay leaves for additional flavor.
9. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes. Check periodically with your cooking timer and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

How to Enjoy Peanut Butter Mafe

Once the mafe is cooked, remove it from heat and allow it to cool slightly. Traditionally, mafe is served with a choice of rice, couscous, or fufu. Scoop a generous portion of the stew over your base of choice or alongside it, ensuring a mix of the creamy sauce and tender vegetables in every serving. For an authentic touch, enjoy mafe with friends or family, ideally sharing from a communal bowl.

Do remember to adjust the level of spiciness to your preference, especially when serving guests who might not be accustomed to the heat. In West African culture, this dish is often accompanied by lively conversation, laughter, and stories, making it a perfect centerpiece for a welcoming meal gathering.