Mafé, also known as groundnut stew, is a rich and hearty dish that hails from Senegal. This flavorful stew is characterized by a smooth and luscious peanut sauce that envelops tender meat, vegetables, and sometimes fish or poultry. Mafé reflects the diverse culinary heritage of Senegal, where bold flavors and communal dining are celebrated. Often served with rice or couscous, this dish invites you to savor the harmonious blend of peanuts, spices, and succulent ingredients. Let’s embark on a journey to Senegal and experience the warm and comforting embrace of Mafé.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs (900g) meat (beef, lamb, or chicken), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 3 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 eggplant, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
- Cooked rice or couscous for serving
Instructions:
- Sear the meat:
- In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sear the meat until it is browned on all sides. Remove the meat from the pot and set it aside.
- Sauté onions and garlic:
- In the same pot, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent.
- Prepare the peanut sauce.
- Add peanut butter to the pot and stir until it melts into the onions and garlic, creating a smooth sauce.
- Add tomatoes and tomato paste.
- Incorporate chopped tomatoes and tomato paste into the peanut sauce. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes break down and the flavors meld.
- Season with spices:
- Stir in ground cayenne pepper, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- Return the meat to the pot.
- Return the seared meat to the pot, coating it with the peanut sauce.
- Add Vegetables:
- Add diced eggplant, sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and diced bell peppers to the pot. Mix well to combine.
- Pour in Broth:
- Pour vegetable or chicken broth over the meat and vegetables, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Simmer:
- Bring the Mafé to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the flavors are well-developed.
- Garnish and serve:
- Garnish the mafé with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve the stew over cooked rice or couscous.
Savor the rich and comforting flavors of Senegal with Mafé—a dish that beautifully captures the essence of West African cuisine. Enjoy the peanut-infused goodness and the communal spirit that Mafé brings to the table.