West African Peanut Stew: A Comforting, Protein-Rich Classic

Creamy, spicy, and deeply comforting, this West African peanut stew brings together tender vegetables, rich tomato, and velvety peanut butter for a soul-satisfying bowl of warmth.

FOODRECIPES

Essence & Style Team

4/20/20252 min read

West African peanut stew with large chunks of sweet potato, parsley leaves and peanuts
West African peanut stew with large chunks of sweet potato, parsley leaves and peanuts

A deeply comforting stew that combines the richness of peanuts with the earthiness of vegetables and spices, this dish is a favorite in many West African households. It’s warm, hearty, and can be made in a single pot for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) vegetable oil

  • 1 large onion, chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1-inch piece fresh ginger, minced

  • 1 large sweet potato (about 300 g / 10.5 oz), peeled and diced

  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped

  • 1 (400 g / 14 oz) can diced tomatoes

  • 240 ml (1 cup) vegetable broth

  • 240 ml (1 cup) coconut milk

  • 180 g (¾ cup) creamy peanut butter

  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) soy sauce

  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) rice vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon (5 g) ground cumin

  • 1 teaspoon (5 g) smoked paprika

  • 1 teaspoon (5 g) ground coriander

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • Fresh cilantro and chopped peanuts, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Sauté the aromatics. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for another 2 minutes.

  2. Add the vegetables. Stir in the sweet potato and red bell pepper. Cook for 5 minutes to soften slightly.

  3. Add liquids and spices. Pour in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and coconut milk. Stir in the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, cumin, paprika, and coriander. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook, covered, for 20–25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.

  4. Season and serve. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and chopped peanuts.

Additional Tips

  • Creamier Texture: For an extra-silky stew, blend part of the soup before serving. Use an immersion blender or blend in batches.

  • Add Protein: This stew is perfect with added protein, like chicken thighs, beef, or chickpeas. Just add them early in the cooking process and simmer until cooked through.

  • Make It Spicy: If you like more heat, add a chopped chili pepper or extra sriracha to the pot.

Disclaimer: The recipes and food recommendations in this article are for general inspiration and enjoyment. Since dietary preferences and restrictions vary, we recommend consulting with a nutritionist or dietitian if you have specific dietary concerns or health conditions. Please note that ingredient availability and cooking times may also vary based on location and personal preferences. Lastly, this page may contain affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them at no cost to you. We are also part of the Amazon Associates program.

West African Peanut Stew

Serves 3 to 4

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