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Exploring global cuisines can be a delightful journey, and one dish that stands out in West African cooking is the comforting and flavorful Peanut Butter Stew. This hearty, plant-based recipe combines rich ingredients like smooth peanut butter, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that is both nutritious and satisfying. In this article, we will delve into the origins of this dish, its nutritional benefits, and provide a step-by-step guide to making your own West African Peanut Butter Stew at home.

West African Peanut Butter Stew

Dive into the flavors of summer with this West African Peanut Butter Stew! This easy, plant-based dish is perfect for a cozy cookout or a casual weeknight dinner. Packed with creamy peanut butter, vibrant veggies, and warm spices, it's both comforting and satisfying. With just one pot and under an hour, you can bring a taste of West Africa to your table. Try it tonight and enjoy the rich traditions in every bite!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup smooth peanut butter

1 large onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1-inch piece of ginger, grated

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced

2 medium carrots, sliced

1 red bell pepper, chopped

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

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 taste)

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Fresh spinach or kale, for garnish

Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Cooked rice or quinoa, for serving

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

    Prepare the Veggies: Add the sweet potatoes, carrots, and red bell pepper to the pot. Stir and let them cook for about 5-7 minutes, until they start to soften.

      Incorporate the Base: Stir in the diced tomatoes, peanut butter, vegetable broth, chickpeas, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until the peanut butter is fully incorporated.

        Simmer: Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes and carrots are tender.

          Finish with Greens: Once the stew is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach or kale until wilted. Adjust seasonings as necessary.

            Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls, garnishing with fresh cilantro. Serve hot over cooked rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

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