African Peanut Soup is a rich, hearty dish made with a base of peanuts (or peanut butter) and vegetables, creating a creamy, flavorful stew that is enjoyed across various parts of Africa. The soup can be made with chicken, beef, or vegetables, and it’s typically served with rice, fufu, or yam. Here’s a simple recipe to make this delicious, comforting soup.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken (cut into pieces, or substitute with beef, goat meat, or tofu for a vegetarian version)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky)
- 4 cups chicken broth or water
- 1-2 tbsp ground chili pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp ground coriander (optional)
- 1 tsp cumin (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp sugar (optional, to balance flavors)
- 1-2 cups spinach or kale (or any leafy green)
- 1 medium sweet potato, diced (optional for extra texture)
Instructions:
- Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the diced tomatoes, chili pepper, coriander, and cumin. Let the mixture cook for another 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes break down and the flavors meld.
- Add Peanut Butter and Broth: Stir in the peanut butter until well combined, then add the chicken broth (or water). Bring the soup to a simmer.
- Simmer the Soup: Add the browned chicken back into the pot, along with the sweet potato (if using). Let the soup simmer for 20-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potato is tender.
- Add Greens: Stir in the spinach or kale, cooking for another 5 minutes until the greens are wilted.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or sugar if needed. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the soup using an immersion blender.
- Serve: Serve hot with rice, fufu, or bread. Enjoy the rich, creamy flavors of this traditional African Peanut Soup!
Conclusion:
African Peanut Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the richness of peanuts with the warmth of spices. It’s a versatile dish that can be made with meat or enjoyed as a vegetarian delight. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal or something to impress your guests, this soup is sure to satisfy!