Botswana Chicken Groundnut Stew
A rich and savory chicken stew featuring a creamy peanut butter and tomato-based sauce, infused with aromatic spices. This dish is a comforting and flavorful representation of Botswanan cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 pieces Chicken thighs(boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tablespoon Vegetable oil
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 1 medium Green bell pepper(chopped)
- 1.5 cups Water
- 0.5 cup Peanut butter(natural, unsweetened)
- 0.5 cup Tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Ginger(freshly grated)
- 2 tablespoons Brown sugar
- 0.5 teaspoon Chili flakes(or to taste)
- 1 15-ounce can Diced tomatoes
- Salt(to taste)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, combine peanut butter, tomato paste, grated ginger, brown sugar, and chili flakes. Gradually stir in 1 cup of water, a little at a time, until the sauce is smooth. Set aside.
💡 Tip: Ensure the peanut butter is well incorporated for a smooth sauce. - 2
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add the chicken pieces and chopped green bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides and the onion is softened, about 8-10 minutes.
- 4
Pour the prepared peanut sauce and the can of diced tomatoes into the pot. Stir well to combine everything.
💡 Tip: Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed. - 5
Add the remaining 0.5 cup of water. Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
💡 Tip: Stirring prevents the stew from sticking to the bottom. - 6
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Serve hot.
💡 Tip: This stew is traditionally served over rice balls or white rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a spicier stew, add more chili flakes or a chopped hot pepper.
- ✓If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- ✓Natural peanut butter works best for this recipe.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes.
- Use chicken breast instead of thighs, adjusting cooking time as needed.