Name: West African Peanut Stew (Maafe) with Chicken or Vegetarian Options Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz. boneless, skinless Chicken Thighs (or Chicken Breasts); Salt + cracked Black Pepper, to taste; 1/2 tsp. ground Cumin; 1 tbsp. Olive Oil; 3/4 cup Half and Half (or Heavy Cream); 2 Garlic Cloves; 1 large Chipotle Pepper (or two small peppers); 1 tsp. Adobo Sauce (from the chipotle pepper can); 1 tsp. Honey; Pinch of Salt; 1/3 cup finely chopped Yellow Onion (or white onion); 1/2 cup finely chopped Yellow Bell Pepper; 1/2 cup chopped Asparagus Spears; 8 oz. dried Penne Pasta; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan; 1 tbsp. fresh Lemon Juice; 1/2 cup reserved Pasta Water (plus more as needed); Chopped Green Onion for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 2 reviews

If you have ever dreamed of a stew that marries rich, nutty flavors with the perfect balance of spices and comforting textures, then you are going to fall head over heels for this West African Peanut Stew (Maafe) with Chicken or Vegetarian Options Recipe. This dish is a vibrant celebration of West African cuisine, blending smooth peanut butter with savory vegetables, tender chicken or hearty plant-based substitutes, and a sauce so luscious it feels like a warm hug in every bite. Whether you prefer the meaty chicken version or the wholesome vegetarian option, this stew is designed to be a soul-satisfying experience that warms your body and brightens your dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Two pieces of cooked chicken are in a dark non-stick frying pan. The chicken pieces are light brown with some black pepper and a bit of oil around them. The pan is on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the secret to this stew’s incredible depth of flavor. Each component plays a crucial role, from the fragrant spices to the creamy peanut butter, making the cooking process straightforward yet rewarding.

Chicken thighs or vegetarian substitute: tender, juicy chicken or plant-based protein provides the hearty base.
Peanut butter: the star ingredient, offering a creamy texture and rich nuttiness that defines the stew.
Tomatoes: bring acidity and vibrant red color, balancing the stew’s richness.
Onions and garlic: foundational aromatics that build savory depth.
Sweet potatoes or other root vegetables: add natural sweetness and satisfying texture.
Broth or water: enough to create a gravy-like consistency without diluting the flavors.
Spices (smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder): key to layering warm and smoky notes throughout the dish.
Fresh greens or kale: to brighten and add a nutritious touch towards the end.
Optional chili peppers or cayenne: for those who like a spicy kick.

How to Make West African Peanut Stew (Maafe) with Chicken or Vegetarian Options Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by chopping your onions, garlic, and vegetables into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using chicken, cut the thighs into chunks for even cooking. If going vegetarian, prepare your chosen protein like chickpeas or tofu. This prep work will streamline your cooking and ensure even flavor distribution.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat a splash of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until they become soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This step creates the essential flavor base that will carry through the entire stew.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken or Cook the Vegetarian Base

If using chicken, add the chunks now and brown them on all sides without cooking through completely. This browning locks in juices and builds flavor. For vegetarian options, toss in chickpeas or tofu here to warm and gain some color.

Step 4: Add the Sweet Potatoes and Spices

Stir in diced sweet potatoes, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, and a pinch of salt, coating everything evenly. The spices will start to awaken and the potatoes begin to soften, soaking up all those wonderful flavors.

Step 5: Incorporate Tomatoes, Broth, and Peanut Butter

Pour in diced tomatoes and vegetable or chicken broth, then stir in the peanut butter until fully combined. The mixture should look thick and creamy. Bring everything to a simmer and let it cook gently until the sweet potatoes are tender and the stew has thickened, usually around 25-30 minutes.

Step 6: Finish with Greens and Adjust Seasoning

Add your kale or other leafy greens in the last 5 minutes of cooking so they wilt but retain their vibrant color. Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or a bit more chili if you like it spicier. This final touch boosts nutrition and freshness in the stew.

How to Serve West African Peanut Stew (Maafe) with Chicken or Vegetarian Options Recipe

A close-up view of a black pan filled with pasta coated in a creamy orange sauce. The pasta is penne, and the sauce is thick and smooth, covering each piece well. There are small pieces of light brown meat and green vegetable bits mixed throughout the pasta. A wooden spoon rests on the right side of the pan, partly covered by the pasta. The pan sits on a surface with a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance your bowl of West African Peanut Stew (Maafe) with chopped fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for added texture. A dollop of yogurt or sour cream can also bring a cooling contrast to the warm spices.

Side Dishes

Serve this stew alongside fluffy white rice, steamed couscous, or warm flatbreads like naan or injera to scoop up every luscious bite. These sides complement the stew’s richness and help soak up the beautifully thick sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual dinner party, set up a “build-your-bowl” station with the stew, cooked grains, and an array of toppings like sliced avocado, pickled onions, or fresh herbs. This invites guests to personalize their bowls and turns the meal into a fun, interactive experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover West African Peanut Stew (Maafe) keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making your second helping even more indulgent.

Freezing

This stew freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Just be aware that if you’ve added any leafy greens, they may become softer after thawing, so you might want to add fresh greens when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or broth if the stew has thickened too much. This helps revive the creamy consistency and keeps the chicken tender.

FAQs

Can I make this stew vegan?

Absolutely! Simply leave out the chicken and use a plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu instead. Also, use vegetable broth to keep the stew fully vegan.

Is peanut butter necessary?

Yes, peanut butter is essential in this recipe because it brings the characteristic creamy nuttiness that defines Maafe. Using natural, unsweetened peanut butter yields the best flavor.

How spicy is this stew?

The stew has a mild to moderate warmth, but you can easily adjust the heat by adding more chili powder or fresh chili peppers according to your preference.

What vegetables work best?

Sweet potatoes are traditional, but you can also add carrots, butternut squash, or even eggplant. Just ensure the vegetables take a similar time to cook for the best results.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this stew only gets better after sitting for a day as the flavors meld beautifully. You can even make it a day ahead and simply reheat before serving.

Final Thoughts

There is something genuinely special about digging into a bowl of West African Peanut Stew (Maafe) with Chicken or Vegetarian Options Recipe that feels both comforting and adventurous. It’s a dish that invites you to explore new flavors while wrapping you in cozy familiarity. I can’t recommend it enough for your next dinner—it’s perfect for sharing with loved ones, and the leftovers are just as delightful. Trust me, once you try it, this stew will become one of your go-to recipes for heartwarming meals.