African Groundnut Stew is a vibrant, hearty dish that captures the rich flavors and warmth of West African cuisine. This vegan version is a celebration of wholesome ingredients like creamy peanut butter, fresh vegetables, and fragrant spices, all simmered together to create a comforting and satisfying meal.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to explore new culinary horizons, this stew offers a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and flavor.
The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its taste but also in its simplicity and versatility. It’s a one-pot wonder that can be enjoyed on a chilly evening or as a nutritious lunch option.
If you love dishes that are both packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, this African Groundnut Stew will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Flavorful and comforting: The combination of roasted peanuts and spices delivers a unique, earthy taste that’s both rich and satisfying. It’s an authentic taste of Africa, adapted for a vegan lifestyle.
Nutritious: Loaded with vegetables, legumes, and healthy fats, this stew is a powerhouse of nutrition, offering protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals all in one bowl.
Easy to make: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, even beginners can whip this up in under an hour. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping and freezing.
Customizable: Whether you like it spicier, chunkier, or with different veggies, this recipe is flexible enough to suit your taste preferences and seasonal produce availability.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Can opener
- Grater (for ginger)
Instructions
- Heat the oil in your large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and ginger to the pot and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning. This releases their fragrant aromas.
- Stir in the spices: smoked paprika, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices, enhancing their flavors.
- Add diced sweet potatoes, carrots, and red bell pepper to the pot. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices and aromatics.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes and carrots are tender.
- Stir in the chickpeas and peanut butter. Mix well until the peanut butter is fully incorporated and the stew takes on a creamy texture.
- Add the chopped spinach or kale and cook for another 5 minutes until the greens are wilted and tender.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and lime juice to taste. The lime juice brightens the stew and balances the richness of the peanut butter.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy your wholesome, vegan African Groundnut Stew!
Tips & Variations
Use natural peanut butter without added sugar or salt for the best flavor and health benefits.
You can swap the sweet potatoes for butternut squash or pumpkin for a different twist. For added protein, try mixing in cooked lentils or tofu cubes.
If you prefer a thicker stew, mash some of the sweet potatoes or chickpeas before adding the greens. For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne or add chopped fresh chili peppers.
Leftovers taste even better the next day, as the flavors deepen. This stew also freezes well—just cool completely before storing in airtight containers.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 350 kcal |
Protein | 12 g |
Fat | 18 g |
Carbohydrates | 35 g |
Fiber | 8 g |
Sugar | 8 g |
Vitamin A | 150% DV |
Vitamin C | 40% DV |
Iron | 20% DV |
Serving Suggestions
African Groundnut Stew is traditionally served over fluffy white rice or millet, but feel free to enjoy it with quinoa, couscous, or even crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
For a more substantial meal, add a side of steamed greens or a fresh salad with tangy vinaigrette. If you want to impress guests, garnish each bowl with chopped peanuts and a drizzle of hot sauce.
Looking for more plant-based comfort food? Check out our Blackstone Lo Mein Recipes or try the refreshing Bobo’S Lemon Poppyseed Oat Bar Recipe for dessert.
Conclusion
This vegan African Groundnut Stew is a true testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. Its hearty texture, rich peanut flavor, and vibrant vegetables make it both nourishing and truly delicious.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it’s a versatile dish that brings a taste of African culinary tradition to your table.
Not only is it filling and wholesome, but it also caters to those following a plant-based diet without compromising on flavor. For more inspiring recipes that are easy to prepare and wonderfully tasty, explore our collection including the Breakfast Wellington Recipe or warm up with the Bread And Gravy Recipe.
Dive into this stew and experience a delicious journey of flavors from the heart of Africa!
📖 Recipe Card: African Groundnut Stew Recipe Vegan
Description: A rich and creamy vegan stew made with peanuts, tomatoes, and vegetables. This hearty dish is perfect for a comforting meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup natural peanut butter
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups chopped kale or spinach
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté until fragrant and soft.
- Stir in red bell pepper and sweet potatoes; cook for 5 minutes.
- Add diced tomatoes, peanut butter, vegetable broth, paprika, and cayenne; stir well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Stir in chopped kale or spinach and cook for 5 more minutes until greens are wilted.
- Serve hot with rice or flatbread.
Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 20 g | Carbs: 30 g
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