Ugandan Groundnut Stew with Sweet Potatoes and Greens
A hearty and flavorful stew combining the richness of groundnuts (peanuts) with the sweetness of sweet potatoes and the freshness of mixed greens. This dish is a staple in Ugandan cuisine, offering a balanced and nutritious meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Roasted groundnuts (peanuts)(ground into a paste or use smooth peanut butter)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 2 medium Onions(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch knob Ginger(grated)
- 3 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 1 tbsp Tomato paste
- 2 medium Sweet potatoes(peeled and cubed)
- 1 bunch Mixed greens(such as spinach, kale, or collard greens, washed and chopped)
- 6 cups Water
- 1 tsp Salt(to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground, to taste)
- 1 tsp Curry powder
- 0.5 tsp Cumin
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- 2
Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- 4
Add the ground peanut paste (or peanut butter), curry powder, and cumin. Stir well to combine with the tomato mixture.
- 5
Pour in 4 cups of water and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir continuously to ensure the peanut paste is fully incorporated and no lumps remain.
- 6
Add the cubed sweet potatoes to the pot. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
- 7
Stir in the chopped mixed greens and the remaining 2 cups of water. Cook for another 5-10 minutes, or until the greens are wilted and tender.
- 8
Season the stew with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust seasonings as needed.
- 9
Serve hot, optionally garnished with chopped peanuts or cilantro.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a smoother stew, ensure the groundnuts are finely ground or use a good quality smooth peanut butter.
- ✓Adjust the amount of water to achieve your desired stew consistency.
- ✓You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots along with the sweet potatoes.
- ✓This stew is delicious served with rice, posho, or chapati.
🔄 Variations
- Add shredded chicken or beef for a non-vegetarian version.
- Incorporate other root vegetables like cassava or yams.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicier kick.