Nigerien Mashed Yam with Groundnut Sauce
A hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender mashed yams served with a rich, savory groundnut (peanut) sauce, often enhanced with vegetables and spices. This is a popular comfort food in Niger, showcasing the importance of yams and groundnuts in the local cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Yam(peeled and cut into chunks)
- 250 g Roasted Peanuts(unsalted, shelled)
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 400 g Tomatoes(canned crushed or fresh, blended)
- 1 medium Bell Pepper(deseeded and chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 4 tbsp Vegetable Oil
- 1 optional Stock Cube
- 1-2 to taste Chili Pepper(finely chopped (optional))
- to taste Salt
- as needed Water
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Peel and cut the yam into uniform chunks. Place in a pot, cover with water, add salt, and boil until tender (about 20-25 minutes).
- 2
While the yam is boiling, prepare the groundnut sauce. Blend the roasted peanuts into a smooth paste with a little water. Set aside.
💡 Tip: Ensure the peanut paste is smooth to avoid a gritty sauce. - 3
In a separate pot or pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 4
Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped bell pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until fragrant and the pepper is slightly softened.
- 5
Stir in the blended tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes) and the optional chili pepper. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the oil starts to separate.
💡 Tip: Allowing the tomato base to cook down well is key for flavor development. - 6
Add the smooth peanut paste to the tomato mixture. Stir well to combine. Gradually add water, about 1-2 cups, to reach your desired sauce consistency. Add the stock cube if using.
💡 Tip: Add water slowly to prevent the sauce from becoming too thin. - 7
Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Season with salt to taste.
💡 Tip: Peanut sauce can thicken as it cooks; adjust water as needed. - 8
Once the yam is tender, drain it thoroughly. Mash the yam with a fork or masher until smooth. You can add a splash of water or a knob of butter for extra smoothness if desired.
💡 Tip: Mash the yam while it's hot for the best texture. - 9
Serve the mashed yam hot, generously topped with the groundnut sauce. Garnish with extra chopped peanuts or fresh herbs if desired.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure your peanuts are well-roasted for the best flavor in the sauce.
- ✓Adjust the chili pepper to your preferred level of heat.
- ✓This dish can be made richer by adding a little meat or fish stock to the sauce.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add shredded cooked chicken or fish to the groundnut sauce for a complete meal.
- Incorporate other vegetables like spinach or okra into the sauce during the last few minutes of simmering.
- For a spicier version, add more chili or a dash of hot sauce.