West African Peanut Stew with Beef (Maafe)

Introduction

Peanut stew, also known as Maafe, is a popular dish in West African cooking. This version combines beef, peanut butter, and vegetables in a thick tomato-based sauce. It’s traditionally enjoyed with rice, fufu or boiled yam.

💚 Why You’ll Love This West African Peanut Stew

• Rich peanut sauce: The peanut butter and tomatoes cook together to create a thick, creamy sauce.
• Tender pieces of beef: Slowly cooking the meat gives it time to soften and take on the taste of the stew.
• Plenty of vegetables: Okra, carrots, spinach and garden eggs add variety to every serving.
• A little heat: Habanero pepper gives the stew a spicy kick, which you can adjust to your liking.
• Different ways to enjoy it: Spoon it over white rice or serve alongside fufu or boiled yam.

How to Make West African Peanut Stew (Maafe)

Prepare the Beef and Vegetables for Maafe

Cut the beef into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

Next, roughly chop the onion, red pepper, and spring onions. Add them to a blender with the canned tomatoes and blend until smooth.

Start Cooking the Beef

First, place the beef pieces into a large cooking pot. Next, pour the blended vegetable mixture over the beef and give everything a good stir.

Set the pot over medium heat and allow it to come to a gentle simmer. Then reduce the heat slightly and leave the beef to cook, stirring occasionally until it begins to soften

Make the West African Peanut Stew Sauce

Once the beef starts to soften, add the tomato paste and smooth peanut butter. Stir until everything is well combined.

Gradually pour in the water, then add the seasoning cubes and salt to taste. Mix thoroughly and allow the stew to simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally as the peanut butter blends into the sauce.

Add the Carrots and Garden Eggs

When the beef is tender and the sauce has reduced, add the chopped carrots and garden eggs, if using.

Pour in the palm oil if you prefer to include it.

Continue cooking until the vegetables begin to soften.

Add the Okra, Spinach and Habanero Pepper

Once the carrots and garden eggs have softened, add the okra and habanero pepper. Allow them to cook until the okra is tender.

Next, stir in the fresh spinach and leave it for a few minutes until the leaves have softened.

As the stew continues cooking, you’ll notice oil beginning to gather on the surface. This is a good sign that the peanut stew is nearly ready. Check that the beef and vegetables are fully cooked, then taste the sauce and adjust the salt if needed.

Finish and Serve Your West African Peanut Stew

Finally, add the lemon juice and stir gently to finish the stew.

Once everything is cooked, take the pot off the heat.

Serve your peanut stew with steamed white rice, fufu, or boiled yam.

🔥 Tips for the Perfect Maafe

• Use smooth peanut butter for best texture (no sugar or additives).
• Cook low and slow so the flavors fully develop.
• Stir often to avoid burning at the bottom.
• Add water gradually to control thickness.
• Use seasoning cubes like Seasong Cube or Knorr for that authentic base.

Love hearty stews? Don’t miss this Lamb and Beef Stew — another bold, flavorful African dish.

❓ FAQs About West African Peanut Stew (Maafe)

Can I make peanut stew without beef?

Yes, you can use chicken instead. Alternatively, leave out the meat and add more vegetables.

How do I know when Maafe is ready?

You’ll notice oil gathering on the surface. The sauce should also be thick, with tender beef and fully cooked vegetables.

Can I make West African peanut stew less spicy?

Yes. Simply reduce the habanero pepper or leave it out completely.

What can I serve with peanut stew?

White rice goes particularly well with the sauce. However, you can also serve it with fufu or boiled yam.

How do I store leftover peanut stew?

Cool the stew and refrigerate it in a covered container within two hours. Eat within 48 hours or freeze for later. When reheating, make sure it’s steaming hot throughout.

Looking for another tasty meal to try? Have a look at my Loaded Beef & Veggie Crunch Plate for another way to enjoy beef with vegetables.

👉 Want to know which peanut butter works best in cooking? Check out this tasty savoury recipe using peanut butter on BBC Good Food and discover more sweet and savoury dishes to try in your stew!