Namibian Beef and Peanut Stew
A hearty and flavorful beef stew, enriched with the creamy texture and nutty taste of peanut butter, a common addition to many African stews. This dish is slow-cooked to tender perfection, making it a comforting and satisfying meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 800 g Stewing beef(cut into 1.5-inch cubes)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 2 Large onions(chopped)
- 2 Garlic cloves(minced)
- 1 tbsp Fresh ginger(peeled and minced)
- 400 ml Beef stock
- 400 g Diced tomatoes
- 0.5 tsp Cayenne pepper
- 0.5 tsp Ground coriander
- 0.5 tsp Ground cumin
- 0.25 tsp Ground nutmeg(optional)
- 1 Bay leaf
- 3 tbsp Crunchy peanut butter
- Salt(to taste)
- Black pepper(freshly ground, to taste)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
- 2
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onions to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and ginger and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- 3
Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the beef stock, diced tomatoes, cayenne pepper, coriander, cumin, nutmeg (if using), and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
- 4
Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender. Stir occasionally.
- 5
Stir in the peanut butter until well combined. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for another 30 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- 6
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Serve hot, ideally with mashed potatoes or rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can sear the beef in batches.
- ✓If the stew becomes too thick, add a little more beef stock or water.
- ✓Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred level of heat.
🔄 Variations
- Add other root vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes along with the onions.
- For a smoother stew, blend a portion of the cooked vegetables and sauce before returning it to the pot.