Kiburi Chakula (Burundi Vegetable and Peanut Stew)
Kiburi Chakula is a hearty and flavorful vegetarian stew, a staple in Burundian cuisine. It combines a variety of vegetables with the rich, nutty taste of ground peanuts, creating a comforting and nutritious meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 200 g Peanut butter (unsweetened)
- 500 g Sweet potatoes(peeled and cubed)
- 400 g Pumpkin(peeled, seeded, and cubed)
- 300 g Spinach(fresh or frozen)
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 400 g Tomatoes(chopped (fresh or canned))
- 750 ml Vegetable broth
- 1 small Chili pepper(finely chopped (optional))
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Cooking oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 2
Add the minced garlic and chopped chili pepper (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes, allowing them to break down slightly.
- 4
Add the cubed sweet potatoes and pumpkin to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
- 5
In a separate bowl, whisk the peanut butter with a little warm water or broth until smooth. This will help prevent lumps.
- 6
Once the vegetables are beginning to soften (about 15-20 minutes), stir in the smooth peanut butter mixture. Stir well to combine.
- 7
Continue to simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes and pumpkin are tender and the stew has thickened. Stir occasionally.
- 8
Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- 9
Serve hot, traditionally with Bugali (a cornmeal porridge).
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a creamier stew, use more peanut butter.
- ✓Adjust the amount of chili pepper to your spice preference.
- ✓If the stew becomes too thick, add a little more vegetable broth or water.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like carrots, green beans, or zucchini.
- For a non-vegetarian version, you can add cooked chicken or fish towards the end of cooking.