mafe

Next Dish: Sheftalia

Mafé, also known as groundnut stew, is a traditional West African dish that is popular in Senegal and Mali. It is a rich stew made from meat, often lamb or chicken, that is simmered in a sauce thickened with ground peanuts. The dish is typically served with rice or couscous and may also include vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, or okra. The name "Mafé" comes from "mafe tiga", which means "peanut sauce" in the Wolof language.

Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 kg of beef or lamb

  • 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil

  • 2 onions, chopped

  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced

  • 2 cans of tomato paste

  • 1 cup of peanut butter

  • 2 litres of water

  • 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (optional)

  • 1 bouillon cube

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

  • 2 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks

  • 1 eggplant, cut into chunks

  • 1/2 head of cabbage, cut into chunks


Instructions:

  1. Cut the meat into cubes and season with salt and pepper.

  2. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the meat and brown on all sides. Remove the meat from the pot and set aside.

  3. In the same pot, add the onions and garlic. Cook until the onions are translucent.

  4. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for a few minutes until it darkens in color.

  5. Add the peanut butter and stir until it's well combined with the tomato paste.

  6. Gradually add the water, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

  7. Return the meat to the pot. Add the Scotch bonnet pepper (if using), bouillon cube, and additional salt and pepper if needed.

  8. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.

  9. Add the sweet potatoes, carrots, eggplant, and cabbage to the pot. Cover and let it simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

  10. Check the seasoning and adjust if necessary. Serve the Mafé over rice.