If you are on the lookout for a rich, comforting dish that bursts with unique flavors and warm textures, this Mafe (Senegalese Peanut Stew) Recipe is an absolute must-try. This West African classic beautifully balances the earthiness of peanut butter with savory beef and vibrant spices, creating a stew that is both hearty and deeply satisfying. With every spoonful, you’ll experience a soulful combination of creamy, spicy, and slightly tangy notes, making it a standout meal for gatherings or cozy nights in.

A white bowl filled with several chunks of brown meat covered in a thick, slightly shiny brown sauce. Small bits of carrot and other vegetables are mixed in the sauce, which is spread evenly over the meat. Bright green chopped herbs are scattered on top, adding a fresh contrast to the rich sauce. The bowl sits on a light brown cloth on a white marbled surface, with a silver fork placed slightly behind the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Mafe (Senegalese Peanut Stew) Recipe lies in its simplicity: each ingredient plays a starring role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that come together effortlessly. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

2 lbs stew beef: The hearty protein base that soaks up all the rich flavors while staying tender.
1/2 cup peanut butter: Gives the stew its signature creamy and nutty richness.
1 red bell pepper: Adds a hint of sweetness and vibrant color.
2 tbsp tomato paste: Brings depth and a slight tang to balance the peanuts.
1 onion: Builds savory undertones and sweetness as it sautés.
1 tbsp beef bouillon powder: Concentrates the meaty flavors to make the stew deeply savory.
1 tsp cayenne pepper: Delivers the perfect gentle heat that wakes up your taste buds.
1/4 cup olive oil: Helps brown the beef and soften the veggies beautifully.
1 tsp salt (to taste): Enhances all the flavors and balances the dish.
1 tsp black pepper: Adds aromatic spice and depth.
1 cup water: Adjusts the stew’s consistency and helps meld the ingredients.
2 cups stock/broth: Enriches the stew’s body for that slow-cooked comfort.
Pinch of salt (to brown the beef): Draws out moisture to ensure a perfect sear on the meat.

How to Make Mafe (Senegalese Peanut Stew) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Brown the Beef

Begin by washing your stew beef and cutting it into manageable pieces. This ensures each chunk is tender and ready to absorb the flavors. Heat your olive oil in a pan over medium heat, then add the beef alongside a pinch of salt and black pepper. Sauté for 8 to 10 minutes until the beef is nicely browned. This caramelization is key for that deep, savory flavor base that makes this stew unforgettable.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

While the beef is browning, chop the onion and red bell pepper. Add these to the pan once the meat has a good sear. Cook them together for about 3 minutes. This step softens the veggies and releases their natural sweetness, which pairs perfectly with the savory beef and peanut tones coming up.

Step 3: Build the Flavor with Tomato Paste

Next, stir in the tomato paste. Cook it for roughly 5 minutes, allowing the paste to slightly caramelize and deepen in flavor. This adds a subtle tang and richness that balances the peanut butter beautifully.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Spices

Now, it’s time to pour in the water, stock, beef bouillon powder, cayenne pepper, and adjust the salt to your taste. Bring everything to a boil and let it cook for 5 more minutes. This combination infuses the stew with layers of savory and spicy notes that sing in harmony with the creamy peanut butter to come.

Step 5: Stir in the Peanut Butter and Simmer

Carefully add the peanut butter, stirring it until it dissolves fully into the stew. Let the pot simmer for another 2 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens just right. This final touch is what transforms the dish into the rich, velvety Mafe you’re craving.

How to Serve Mafe (Senegalese Peanut Stew) Recipe

Mafe (Senegalese Peanut Stew) Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A fresh handful of chopped cilantro or parsley brightens up the hearty stew wonderfully. If you like a touch of crunch, toasted peanuts on top add an irresistible texture contrast. For an acidic pop, consider a squeeze of lime juice or a dash of chili flakes if you want to turn up the heat.

Side Dishes

Traditionally, this Mafe (Senegalese Peanut Stew) Recipe is served over fluffy white rice, which soaks up the luscious sauce dreamily. For a low-carb twist, cauliflower rice works beautifully too, as does crusty bread to mop up the thick stew. Steamed vegetables or a simple side salad can add freshness and balance to each meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-friendly presentation, serve the stew in individual bowls with a rainbow of colorful veggies scattered across the top. You could also turn it into a hearty stew lunchbox meal or fill warm pita pockets with the rich beef and peanut sauce. The versatility of this dish means you can get playful and make it your own!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Mafe keeps incredibly well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors continue to deepen, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezing

This peanut stew freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Cool the stew completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container, where it will keep for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave some space for expansion.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the stew seems too thick, add a splash of water or broth to bring it back to the perfect consistency. The creamy texture will be just as comforting as fresh.

FAQs

Can I make Mafe without beef?

Absolutely! This Mafe (Senegalese Peanut Stew) Recipe can easily be adapted with chicken, lamb, or even vegetables like sweet potatoes and eggplant for a vegetarian version. The peanut butter base ensures it remains rich regardless of the protein.

Is the peanut butter used sweet or savory?

Use a natural, unsweetened peanut butter for this recipe. It provides the perfect balance of creaminess and nuttiness without added sugar, which keeps the stew savory and authentic.

How spicy is this stew?

The cayenne pepper added contributes a mild heat that you can adjust up or down depending on your preference. If you prefer milder flavors, simply reduce the cayenne to suit your taste.

What can I substitute for beef bouillon powder?

If you don’t have beef bouillon powder on hand, you can use beef broth or stock instead. Alternatively, vegetable bouillon works fine if you want to keep things lighter or vegetarian-friendly.

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes! Browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables first is recommended for the best flavor, but after that, you can combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker on low for 6 to 8 hours. Just add the peanut butter in the last 30 minutes to avoid it separating.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about this Mafe (Senegalese Peanut Stew) Recipe that makes it a cherished dish for any season. Its warm peanut undertones combined with tender beef and a delicate spice blend invite you to slow down, savor, and share with loved ones. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try making it yourself — it’s easier than you think and bound to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Mafe (Senegalese Peanut Stew) Recipe