Mafé Recipe

Cook Time: 2 hours 20 minutes  

   Prep Time: 20 minutes

Mafé Ingredients

Mafé Instructions

  1. Heat the peanut oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  2. Add the beef chuck cubes in batches, searing each side until browned, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove browned beef and set aside.
  3. Lower the heat to medium and add the chopped yellow onion to the pot. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion is soft and translucent.
  4. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the onions. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  5. Stir in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, and ground coriander, and cook for 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
  6. Return the browned beef to the pot along with any accumulated juices.
  7. Add the sliced carrots, cubed sweet potato, and diced red bell pepper to the pot, stirring to combine with the aromatics and beef.
  8. Pour in the can of diced tomatoes and add the tomato paste, stirring well to incorporate.
  9. Add the whole Scotch bonnet pepper and bay leaf to the pot.
  10. Pour in the beef stock, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  11. In a medium bowl, whisk the peanut butter with a ladleful of hot broth from the pot until smooth, then stir the peanut mixture back into the stew.
  12. Season the stew with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  13. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot partially, and let the stew simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
  14. Remove the Scotch bonnet pepper and bay leaf from the pot and discard.
  15. Stir in the juice of 1 lime, taste, and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
  16. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish each serving with chopped fresh cilantro leaves before serving.

Estimated Calories: 450, Servings: 6

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Storage Tips

When it comes to storage, the best way to keep your mafé fresh and delicious is to use airtight containers. This easy step helps lock in the rich flavors and prevents any unwanted odors from mingling with your stew. For a healthy and quick meal prep, simply portion the mafé into individual servings before refrigerating. This method is not only great for maintaining the quality of your recipe but also makes it fast and convenient to grab a meal on the go. Trust me, a well-stored mafé is a true delight waiting for you after a long day.
Shelf life is a crucial factor for anyone who loves to cook in batches, and mafé is no exception. When stored properly in the refrigerator, this dish can last up to four days while retaining its best taste and texture. If you want to extend its life, freezing is a good option, allowing you to enjoy this delicious stew for up to three months. Imagine having a healthy, home-cooked meal ready whenever you need it-just another reason why this recipe is a great addition to your meal rotation.
Reheating mafé is both easy and fast, making it perfect for busy lifestyles. For the best results, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating and to preserve the stew's creamy consistency. If you are in a hurry, the microwave is a good alternative-just cover the container and heat in short intervals, stirring in between. This approach helps retain the rich, nutty flavor that makes mafé so special, ensuring every bite is as delicious as when it was first made.

About Mafé Recipe

If you're searching for the best homemade peanut stew, you absolutely have to try this authentic Mafé recipe! I've made this dish so many times, I could probably cook it with my eyes closed (but I don't, because hot pots and clumsy hands are a dangerous combo). The ingredients are simple and easy to find, which makes this recipe perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something quick, tasty, and comforting. Trust me, once you learn how to make this delicious stew, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it.
One of my favorite things about this Mafé recipe is how easy it is to customize. Want it spicier? Toss in some extra chili. Need it vegetarian? Just skip the meat and load up on veggies. The best part is that the peanut butter gives it a creamy, rich flavor that's downright irresistible. I always get compliments when I serve this at family gatherings, and my friends beg me for my "secret tips" (spoiler: it's all about using authentic ingredients and not skimping on the peanut butter). If you're looking for a quick and simple way to impress, this is the perfect recipe.
If you're new to making Chadian-inspired dishes, don't worry-this Mafé recipe is super forgiving. Even if you accidentally add a little too much of one ingredient (been there, done that), it still turns out delicious every time. My top tips for the perfect stew? Use fresh vegetables, don't rush the simmering, and always taste as you go. With this easy, authentic recipe, you'll have a tasty, homemade meal that's sure to become a family favorite. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the best peanut stew you've ever had!

Mafé Tips

Unlock the secret to a truly delicious homemade Mafé with these expert tips. For the best results, always use fresh, high-quality ingredients-this is the foundation of an authentic recipe that bursts with flavor. The key to a perfect, tasty peanut stew lies in balancing the creamy peanut butter with the right blend of spices. If you're looking for an easy and quick way to impress, this simple recipe delivers rich, comforting flavors in every bite.
To make your Mafé stand out, sauté your aromatics until golden before adding the rest of your ingredients. This step deepens the flavor, making your stew irresistibly delicious. Wondering how to make the best version at home? Simmer gently to allow the flavors to meld, and don't rush-patience is the secret ingredient in any authentic Chadian dish.
For a quick weeknight meal, prep your ingredients ahead of time. This makes the cooking process smooth and ensures your homemade Mafé is ready in no time. Want to elevate your recipe? Add a splash of citrus or a pinch of chili for a tasty twist that keeps everyone coming back for more.
The beauty of this easy recipe is its versatility. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned cook, these tips guarantee a perfect, hearty stew every time. Share your own tips or favorite ingredients to make this the best Mafé experience for everyone!

Mafé Story

I will never forget the first time I shared my recipe with a friend who claimed to be a picky eater. She was always searching for something both healthy and delicious, but rarely found a dish that checked both boxes. When I invited her over for dinner, I could see the skepticism in her eyes as she took her first bite. To my surprise, her face lit up with genuine delight. She could not stop raving about how good it tasted and how she never expected something so easy to prepare could be so satisfying. That moment made me realize the power of sharing food that brings people together in unexpected ways.
What truly stayed with me was her reaction after the meal. She asked for the recipe right away, eager to recreate the experience for her own family. She mentioned how she was always on the lookout for quick and fast meals that did not compromise on flavor or nutrition, and this dish fit perfectly into her busy lifestyle. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and it reminded me that sometimes the best meals are the ones that surprise us, both in taste and in the joy they bring to others.
Since then, I have made it a point to invite more friends to try my version, each time hoping for that same spark of delight. The great thing about sharing this dish is seeing how it opens people up to new flavors and experiences, all while being so simple to make. If you are searching for something that is as easy as it is delicious, and as healthy as it is comforting, I invite you to try it for yourself. You never know whose day you might brighten with a single, unexpected bite.

Mafé History

Mafé's cultural origins are deeply rooted in the heart of West and Central Africa, where it has long been celebrated as a symbol of hospitality and togetherness. In Chad, this delicious stew is more than just a meal; it is a gathering point for families and friends, a dish that brings people together for good conversation and laughter. The best part about mafé is how it reflects the resourcefulness and creativity of Chadian cooks, who have mastered the art of transforming simple, healthy ingredients into something truly special. Sharing mafé is a way to honor tradition and show care for loved ones, making it a great recipe for anyone who values connection and community.
Over time, the recipe for mafé has evolved, adapting to the changing tastes and available ingredients of each generation. What started as a humble, easy-to-make stew has become a canvas for culinary innovation, with cooks adding their own twists to keep the dish exciting and relevant. The fast pace of modern life has inspired many to seek out quick and convenient ways to prepare mafé, without sacrificing its rich, comforting flavors. This evolution has made mafé accessible to a wider audience, proving that a good recipe can stand the test of time while still embracing new ideas and techniques.
Regional adaptations of mafé across Africa showcase the dish's incredible versatility and appeal. In Chad, the stew is often enjoyed with local grains, while neighboring countries might serve it with rice or bread, each version offering a unique taste experience. These adaptations highlight the best qualities of mafé: its ability to bring out the delicious flavors of local produce and its flexibility to suit different preferences. Whether you are looking for a healthy, hearty meal or a quick and easy dinner option, mafé's regional variations ensure there is a version that will fit perfectly into your kitchen and lifestyle.