Nigerian Groundnut Stew

Experience the rich, heartwarming flavors of West Africa with this Nigerian Groundnut Stew—a savory, nutty delight that combines protein-packed peanut butter or groundnuts with tender chicken or beef, fresh tomatoes, and a vibrant blend of spices. This hearty stew features the bold heat of Scotch bonnet pepper, the warmth of ginger, and the earthy undertones of paprika, all simmered to perfection with a splash of chicken stock. Optional leafy greens like spinach or kale add a nutritious twist, making it as wholesome as it is flavorful. Traditionally served with steamed rice, boiled yams, or your favorite starch, this one-pot dish is a perfect fusion of comfort and complexity. With just 20 minutes of prep time, it’s an easy and delicious way to explore authentic Nigerian cuisine.

Nutriscore Rating: 77/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Raw peanuts (groundnuts) or peanut butter
• 1 pound Chicken or beef
• 4 large Tomatoes
• 1 large Red bell pepper
• 1 medium Scotch bonnet pepper
• 1 large Onion
• 3 tablespoons Vegetable oil
• 2 medium Garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon Ginger
• 3 cups Chicken stock or water
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Paprika
• 2 cups Spinach or kale (optional)

Directions

Step 1

If using raw peanuts, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant, then blend into a smooth paste using a food processor. Alternatively, use store-bought natural peanut butter without added sugar.

Step 2

Wash and cut the protein (chicken or beef) into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper and set aside.

Step 3

Blend the tomatoes, red bell pepper, Scotch bonnet pepper, and half of the onion in a blender until smooth. Set this mixture aside.

Step 4

Finely chop the other half of the onion, the garlic, and ginger.

Step 5

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until fragrant and softened, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 6

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the protein to the pot. Sear the pieces until slightly browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 7

Pour the blended tomato and pepper mixture into the pot. Stir well and allow it to cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reduces and the oil begins to separate.

Step 8

In a small bowl, mix the peanut paste with about 1 cup of warm water to thin it out. Gradually add this mixture to the pot, stirring well to combine.

Step 9

Add the chicken stock (or water), salt, ground black pepper, and paprika. Stir and bring the stew to a boil.

Step 10

Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the stew simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the protein is cooked through and the flavors are well combined.

Step 11

If using spinach or kale, rinse and chop it, then add it to the stew in the last 5 minutes of cooking. Stir to wilt the greens.

Step 12

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the groundnut stew hot, alongside steamed rice, boiled yams, or any starch of your choice.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2558.3 grams (2558.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2788

Total Fat 177.40g	227%
Saturated Fat 25.80g	129%
Polyunsaturated Fat 25.70g
Cholesterol 386mg	129%
Sodium 5454mg	237%
Total Carbohydrate 106.00g	39%
Dietary Fiber 37.80g	135%
Total Sugars 44.70g
Protein 220.40g	441%

Vitamin D 23IU	114%
Calcium 559mg	43%
Iron 23mg	129%
Potassium 5819mg	124%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 55.0%

Protein: 30.4%

Carbs: 14.6%