Peanut or groundnut stew is a popular dish found in many West African countries with countless regional variations. You’ll find differences in preparations and the accompanying starch (rice, yams, fufu etc), but most versions will feature a savory, hearty stew that includes tomatoes, peppers, peanuts and some type of meat. My version uses venison, in particular the elk I got while hunting in Utah. This is a simple to put together, one pot meal, fitting for a cold day at the end of winter. Perfect for sharing with friends and family as a vehicle to relive stories about and lessons learned from the hunt.
Ingredients
- 1lb of thinly sliced elk
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 habanero or scotch bonnet (seeds removed)
- .5 a can of crushed tomato
- 2 thumb sized lobes of ginger (peeled)
- 1 large onion
- 1 bunch of cilantro/span>
- 2 cups game stock
- Roasted peanuts for garnish
- Neutral cooking oil
- Salt and Pepper
Instructions
-
In a heavy bottomed pot or dutch oven brown elk in oil. Season with salt and pepper.
-
While meat is browning combine peppers, ginger, onion, tomato and half of the cilantro in a food processor and puree. If the mixture becomes too thick, thin with stock or water.
-
Once meat is browned add your pureed veg and the rest of the stock to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover with the lid on until meat is tender (approx 45 minutes).
-
Add peanut butter and stir to incorporate. Simmer for a few more minutes, add a bit of water if too thick, taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
-
Garnish with minced cilantro and roasted peanuts. Serve as a stew or serve atop rice, fonio, sweet potatoes, or cous cous.