Savory African Peanut Stew (Elephant Delight)
Experience the rich and comforting flavors of Africa with this Savory African Peanut Stew, also known as Elephant Delight. This heartwarming stew combines tender beef, creamy peanut butter, and a medley of spices to create a delightful dish that is both hearty and nourishing. Perfect for sharing with friends and family, this stew can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or served over a bed of steamed rice for an extra filling experience. With its unique blend of ingredients, it's sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
oil
5 tablespoons (divided)
beef
2 lbs (cut into 1-inch cubes)
flour
1/2 cup (for coating beef)
nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon
chili powder
1 tablespoon
onions
4 medium (sliced)
minced garlic
1 teaspoon
water
5-6 cups
red pepper
1 teaspoon (or less, to taste)
tomato sauce
3/4 cup
chunky peanut butter
1/2 cup
peas and carrots
optional (optional addition during simmering)
steamed rice
for serving
hot sauce
for serving
Instructions
1
In a large heavy kettle, heat 3 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
2
Toss the beef cubes in flour, ensuring they are evenly coated, then brown the cubes in the hot oil until they develop a rich, golden crust.
3
Once the beef is browned, stir in the nutmeg and chili powder, allowing the spices to bloom for a moment.
4
Add the sliced onions and minced garlic, stirring until the onions soften and become translucent.
5
Pour in 5-6 cups of water, followed by the red pepper and tomato sauce, stirring well to combine.
6
Bring the stew to a gentle simmer, cover, and let it cook for about 1 hour or until the meat is tender.
7
Optional: If using peas and carrots, add them during the last 15 minutes of simmering.
8
While the stew simmers, in a separate bowl or microwave-safe container, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil with the peanut butter until warm and smooth.
9
Carefully stir the peanut butter mixture into the beef stew, mixing thoroughly over low heat for 15 more minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
10
Serve the stew over a generous portion of steamed rice, and provide hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is African Peanut Stew?
African Peanut Stew, also known as Elephant Delight, is a rich and comforting dish that combines tender beef, creamy peanut butter, and a blend of spices like nutmeg and chili powder.
What kind of meat is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 lbs of beef cut into 1-inch cubes.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields 6 servings.
Why is the beef tossed in flour before cooking?
Tossing the beef in flour helps it develop a rich, golden crust when browning and also acts as a thickening agent for the stew later on.
What type of peanut butter should I use?
The recipe recommends using 1/2 cup of chunky peanut butter for added texture.
How long does the stew need to simmer?
The beef should simmer in the liquid for about 1 hour, followed by an additional 15 minutes after adding the peanut butter mixture.
What spices provide the flavor in Elephant Delight?
The primary spices used are nutmeg, chili powder, and red pepper.
Can I add vegetables to this stew?
Yes, you can optionally add peas and carrots during the last 15 minutes of simmering.
How is the stew served?
It is traditionally served over a bed of steamed rice with hot sauce provided on the side.
How much water is required for the base?
You will need 5-6 cups of water to create the stew base.
Is there a specific way to add the peanut butter?
Yes, heat the peanut butter with 2 tablespoons of oil separately until warm and smooth before stirring it into the stew.
Does this recipe use fresh garlic?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of minced garlic.
How many onions are needed?
The recipe uses 4 medium onions, sliced.
What is the role of tomato sauce in this recipe?
The 3/4 cup of tomato sauce adds acidity and depth to the savory broth.
Is this stew very spicy?
The spice level is moderate but adjustable; it uses 1 tablespoon of chili powder and 1 teaspoon of red pepper, which can be reduced to taste.
How much oil is needed in total?
You will need 5 tablespoons of oil, divided: 3 for browning the meat and 2 for the peanut butter mixture.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
While the instructions specify a heavy kettle, you could adapt it for a slow cooker by browning the meat first and then slow-cooking the rest of the ingredients.
What is 'Elephant Delight'?
It is another name for Savory African Peanut Stew, highlighting its hearty and nourishing nature.
Is the flour used only for the beef?
Yes, 1/2 cup of flour is used specifically for coating the beef cubes before they are browned.
What temperature should I use to brown the beef?
The beef should be browned over medium-high heat.
When do I add the onions?
Add the sliced onions after the beef has been browned and the nutmeg and chili powder have been stirred in.
How long do the onions need to cook?
Stir the onions until they soften and become translucent before adding the liquids.
Should the stew be boiled or simmered?
The stew should be brought to a gentle simmer and covered during the 1-hour cooking period.
Can I use creamy peanut butter instead?
Yes, you can substitute creamy peanut butter if you prefer a smoother sauce without the nut pieces.
How do I know when the stew is done?
The stew is ready when the beef is tender and the peanut butter has been fully integrated for at least 15 minutes.
What type of kettle is best for this recipe?
A large heavy kettle or a Dutch oven is ideal for even heat distribution.
Is this recipe family-friendly?
Yes, it is tagged as a family-friendly and easy dinner option.
What does browning the beef accomplish?
Browning develops a rich flavor profile and a golden crust on the meat that enhances the overall taste of the stew.
Can I use other grains besides rice?
While rice is traditional, you could also serve this stew over fufu, couscous, or quinoa.
Is the hot sauce mandatory?
No, the hot sauce is optional and should be provided on the side for those who prefer extra heat.