Evolution of Flavour

 


Traditional, Time Tested – Groundnut Stew

This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.

Country: Sierra Leone Sierra Leone Region / Locale: Sierra Leonean
Servings: Serves 4-6

Groundnut Stew, also known as Peanut Stew, is a hearty and flavorful dish originating from West Africa. Old in tradition yet refreshing in taste, this dish epitomizes the rich culinary history of countries like Ghana and Nigeria. Made with a luscious peanut butter base, it is spiced with aromatic seasonings and enriched with vegetables and proteins, offering a comforting and satisfying meal experience.

Ingredients

  • chicken thighs – 1.5 lbs / 680 g
  • salt – 1.5 tsp / 9 g
  • black pepper – 1 tsp / 2 g
  • vegetable oil – 2 tbsp / 30 ml
  • onion, chopped – 1 medium / 150 g
  • garlic, minced – 3 cloves
  • ginger, grated – 1 tbsp / 15 g
  • diced tomatoes, canned – 14 oz / 400 g
  • peanut butter – 1/2 cup / 120 g
  • chicken broth – 2 cups / 480 ml
  • sweet potatoes, peeled and diced – 2 medium / 400 g
  • spinach, fresh – 2 cups / 60 g
  • cayenne pepper – 1/2 tsp / 1 g

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper.
  2. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and brown on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, add the onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes.
  6. Stir in the peanut butter and chicken broth, mixing until smooth.
  7. Return the chicken to the pot, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
  8. Add the sweet potatoes and cayenne pepper, simmering until tender, about 15 minutes.
  9. Stir in the spinach until wilted, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
  10. Serve hot, optionally with rice or flatbread.

Check out some of our other recipe books:
https://evolutionofflavour.com/cookbooks/balkan-cuisine/balkan-cuisine-volume-1/
https://evolutionofflavour.com/cookbooks/japanese-cuisine/japanese-cuisine-volume-1/
https://evolutionofflavour.com/cookbooks/italian-cuisine/italian-cuisine-volume-1/
https://evolutionofflavour.com/cookbooks/chinese-cuisine/chinese-cuisine-volume-1/
https://evolutionofflavour.com/cookbooks/oceanic-cuisine/oceanic-cuisine-volume-1/