Pat the beef dry, season with salt and pepper. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat oil and brown the beef on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
Senegalese Mafe (Peanut Stew)
- Total time - 1 hour 45 minutes
- Preparation - 30 minutes
- Cooking time - 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Country: Senegal
Mafe is a symbol of comfort food in West Africa. Its creamy texture and rich, complex flavor make it a beloved dish for family gatherings. The key to perfect Mafe is in the layering of flavors—from searing the meat to sautéing the onions, and finally, the slow simmering of the peanut sauce that brings everything together. This recipe is straightforward yet packed with authentic flavor that you will instantly fall in love with.
Ingredients
For the stew
- 1 kg beef (e.g., chuck), cut into cubes
- vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 200 g peanut butter, unsalted and sugar-free
- 1 liter chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 sweet potatoes, cubed
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- spinach or cabbage, chopped
- 1 chili pepper (to taste)
- salt and black pepper
For serving
- long-grain rice
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the meat
Step 2: Prepare the sauce
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
Gradually whisk in the peanut butter to form a smooth paste. Slowly pour in the broth, whisking until a smooth sauce forms.
Step 3: Simmer the stew
Return the beef to the pot. Add the carrots and simmer for about 30 minutes. Then add the sweet potatoes and bell pepper. Cover and simmer for another 30-45 minutes, or until the meat and vegetables are tender.
Step 4: Finish and serve
Stir in the spinach (or cabbage) and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with rice or couscous.