Best African Vegetable Stew Recipes

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MAKE-AHEAD VEGETARIAN MOROCCAN STEW



Make-Ahead Vegetarian Moroccan Stew image

This delicious, healthy North African-inspired stew is a family favorite, served with warm bread or even over couscous. You can make the entire stew ahead of time, let it cool, and refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for several months. You can also chop the veggies and mix the spices ahead of time, freeze them, and assemble it with the canned ingredients the day you wish to cook it for a wonderful exotic meal in just 30 minutes.

Provided by Make-Ahead Mamas

Categories     Soups, Stews and Chili Recipes     Stews

Time 1h10m

Yield 6

Number Of Ingredients 23

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon ground ginger
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground turmeric
⅛ teaspoon curry powder
1 tablespoon butter
1 sweet onion, chopped
2 cups finely shredded kale
4 (14 ounce) cans organic vegetable broth
1 (15 ounce) can garbanzo beans, drained
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
2 sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
4 large carrots, chopped
1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
½ cup chopped dried apricots
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon ground black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon water

Steps:

  • Combine cinnamon, cumin, salt, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, turmeric, and curry powder in a large bowl.
  • Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Cook the onion in the butter until soft and just beginning to brown, 5 to 10 minutes. Stir in kale and spice mixture; cook until kale begins to wilt and spices are fragrant, about 2 minutes.
  • Pour the vegetable broth into the pot. Stir garbanzo beans, tomatoes, potatoes, sweet potatoes, carrots, lentils, apricots, and honey, into the broth; bring to boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer until vegetables and lentils are cooked and tender, about 30 minutes. Season stew with black pepper.
  • Dissolve cornstarch in water; stir into stew and simmer thickened, about 5 minutes.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 543.2 calories, Carbohydrate 110.6 g, Cholesterol 5.1 mg, Fat 4.2 g, Fiber 24 g, Protein 19.5 g, SaturatedFat 1.5 g, Sodium 1217.9 mg, Sugar 23.2 g

EFO RIRO - NIGERIAN SPINACH STEW



Efo riro - Nigerian Spinach Stew image

Efo riro (Nigerian Spinach Stew) is a mouthwatering, savory, African stew made with 'Efo Shoko' (Lagos spinach) or 'Efo Tete' (African spinach). Who knew spinach could taste so good?

Provided by Tayo Oredola

Categories     Main Course

Time 30m

Number Of Ingredients 15

8 cups spinach (chopped)
12 oz cooked meat (I used goat meat but you can use any.)
2 cups mushrooms
½ cup palm oil
2 plum tomatoes (also known as roma tomatoes)
1 red bell pepper
1 habanero pepper
1 onion
¼ cup water or stock (optional)
2 tsp bouillon powder
2 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp black pepper
2 tsp ground crayfish
1 tsp pepper flakes (optional)
1 tsp salt (or to taste)

Steps:

  • Blend tomatoes, red bell pepper, habanero pepper and half of the onion together using a food processor.
  • Chop up the other half of the onion and set aside.
  • If using fresh spinach, chop it up, wash and squeeze, and leave in a colander. If using frozen spinach, microwave for a few minutes.
  • Wash and drain the mushrooms.
  • Heat palm oil in a pot on medium heat, add in your onions and stir for about 2 minutes.
  • Add in your blended tomato and pepper mix and stir for about a minute.
  • Add the bouillon powder, crayfish, black pepper, cayenne pepper and salt, and cook on medium heat for 5 minutes.
  • If using fresh spinach, add stock or water and bring to a boil.
  • Add the goat meat, mushroom, and any other meat you desire and let boil for another 5 minutes.
  • Add the spinach and stir intermittently for about 5 minutes.
  • Add more salt or spices if desired.
  • Garnish with red pepper flakes, if you want it spicier and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts : Calories 246 kcal, Carbohydrate 13 g, Protein 16 g, Fat 16 g, Sodium 598 mg, Fiber 8 g, Sugar 3 g, ServingSize 1 serving

AFRICAN PEANUT SWEET POTATO STEW



African Peanut Sweet Potato Stew image

Back when I was in college, my mom made an addicting sweet potato and peanut stew. I shared it with friends, and now all of us serve it to our own kids. They all love it, of course. -Alexis Scatchell, Niles, Illinois

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Dinner

Time 6h20m

Yield 8 servings (2-1/2 quarts).

Number Of Ingredients 13

1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
1/2 cup chunky peanut butter
3 garlic cloves, halved
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
3 pounds sweet potatoes (about 6 medium), peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas or garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup water
8 cups chopped fresh kale
Chopped peanuts and additional cilantro leaves, optional

Steps:

  • Place the first 8 ingredients in a food processor; process until pureed. Transfer to a 5-qt. slow cooker; stir in sweet potatoes, beans and water., Cook, covered, on low 6-8 hours or until potatoes are tender, adding kale during the last 30 minutes. If desired, top each serving with chopped peanuts and additional cilantro.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 349 calories, Fat 9g fat (1g saturated fat), Cholesterol 0 cholesterol, Sodium 624mg sodium, Carbohydrate 60g carbohydrate (23g sugars, Fiber 11g fiber), Protein 10g protein.

AFRICAN VEGETABLE STEW



African Vegetable Stew image

This is a different kind of stew as the cinnamon is the promident smell as it is cooking, but blends in with the other spices and flavors creating a nicely flavored vegetable stew.

Provided by LUv 2 BaKE

Categories     Stew

Time 1h10m

Yield 6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 16

1 tablespoon non-hydrogenated margarine
1 cup onion, chopped
1/2 cup parsley, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon ginger
5 cups water
1 cup carrot, sliced
1/2 cup dried lentils, rinsed (I like red lentils or a mixture of red and brown)
1 cup long grain rice, uncooked
15 ounces whole tomatoes, undrained, chopped
10 ounces frozen green peas
9 ounces frozen green beans
salt and pepper

Steps:

  • Melt margarine over medium heat in a large saucepan; add onion, parsley, garlic, cinnamon, turmeric, pepper and ginger; stir occasionally until onion is tender - add some water if it begins to stick.
  • Stir in water, carrot and lentils; boil, then reduce heat and cover to simmer 25 minutes.
  • Stir in rice, and undrained tomatoes; boil, then reduce heat and cover to simmer for 20 minutes.
  • Stir in peas, beans and salt and pepper to taste; boil, then reduce heat and cover to simmer 5 minutes or till tender.
  • If desired, serve with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream - 1 serving = 275 cal, 3g fat, 56g carb, 10g fibre, 12 g pro.

NORTH AFRICAN BEAN STEW WITH BARLEY AND WINTER SQUASH



North African Bean Stew With Barley and Winter Squash image

This warming, highly spiced stew is rich in beans, grains and chunks of sweet winter squash. Feel free to substitute other grains for the barley. Farro works particularly well. If you'd prefer something soupier, thin it with a little broth or water before serving.

Provided by Melissa Clark

Categories     soups and stews, main course, side dish

Time 1h45m

Yield 8 to 10 servings

Number Of Ingredients 18

1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil, more for serving
2 leeks, white and green parts, diced
1 bunch cilantro, leaves and stems separated
1 cup finely diced fennel, fronds reserved (1/2 large fennel bulb)
3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
2 1/2 tablespoons baharat (see note)
1/2 cinnamon stick
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 quarts chicken or vegetable broth
1/2 cup pearled barley
2 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, more as needed
Large pinch saffron, crumbled (optional)
4 cups cooked beans or chickpeas
2 cups peeled and diced butternut squash (1 small squash)
3/4 cup peeled and diced turnip (1 medium)
1/2 cup red lentils
Plain yogurt, for serving
Aleppo pepper or hot paprika, for serving

Steps:

  • In a large pot over medium heat, heat oil and cook leeks until they begin to brown, 10 to 12 minutes.
  • Finely chop cilantro stems. Stir into pot, along with diced fennel and garlic. Cook for 2 minutes. Stir in baharat, cinnamon and tomato paste, and cook until paste begins to caramelize, about 2 minutes.
  • Stir in broth, 3 cups water, the barley and the salt. Bring to a gentle boil, stir in saffron, if using, and reduce heat to medium. Simmer uncovered for 40 minutes. Stir in beans, squash, turnip and lentils; cook until barley is tender, about another 20 to 30 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings, if desired. Remove cinnamon stick.
  • Ladle stew into bowls. Spoon a dollop of yogurt on top and drizzle with olive oil. Garnish with cilantro leaves, fennel fronds and Aleppo pepper or paprika.

Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 181, UnsaturatedFat 6 grams, Carbohydrate 25 grams, Fat 8 grams, Fiber 5 grams, Protein 5 grams, SaturatedFat 1 gram, Sodium 546 milligrams, Sugar 4 grams

AFRICAN STEW



African Stew image

Peanuts are an important part of many African cuisines. Combined with sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and kale, they give this stew a power punch of nutrients and great flavor. Serve with rice or bread and a salad.

Provided by Larry Benish

Categories     Soups, Stews and Chili Recipes     Stews

Time 1h15m

Yield 4

Number Of Ingredients 13

1 tablespoon vegetable oil, or as needed
4 cups vegetable stock, divided
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups peeled and diced sweet potatoes
1 cup chickpeas, drained
1 cup uncooked brown rice
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ cup peanut butter
2 cups chopped kale, stems removed
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce, or to taste

Steps:

  • Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons vegetable stock, onion, and garlic. Cook and stir until onion is soft, 3 to 5 minutes. Add remaining stock, sweet potatoes, chickpeas, brown rice, and salt. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and cover the stew. Simmer until sweet potatoes and rice are tender, about 45 minutes.
  • Combine peanut butter with 1/2 cup of the liquid from the stew. Stir into a smooth paste.
  • Add the peanut butter mixture and kale to the stew. Cook until kale is wilted, about 5 minutes. Stir in lemon juice, soy sauce, and hot pepper sauce.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 482.8 calories, Carbohydrate 77.6 g, Fat 14.4 g, Fiber 9.1 g, Protein 14.1 g, SaturatedFat 2.7 g, Sodium 983.9 mg, Sugar 7.4 g

WEST AFRICAN PEANUT STEW



West African Peanut Stew image

A hearty stew that's super-easy to make and great for peanut butter lovers. Can be made vegetarian or with chicken. In a pinch, feel free to use vegetable or corn oil for peanut oil, powdered ginger for fresh, water for stock, etc. Kale works well in place of collard greens.

Provided by km1312

Categories     Soups, Stews and Chili Recipes     Stews     Chicken

Time 1h5m

Yield 4

Number Of Ingredients 12

2 tablespoons peanut oil
1 red onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chopped fresh ginger
1 pound chicken, cut into chunks
1 tablespoon crushed red pepper, or to taste
salt and ground black pepper to taste
5 cups chicken stock
3 small sweet potatoes, cut into chunks
1 (16 ounce) can chopped tomatoes, with liquid
¼ pound collard greens, roughly chopped
1 cup chunky peanut butter

Steps:

  • Heat the peanut oil in a large pot over medium-high heat; cook and stir the onion, garlic, and ginger in the hot oil until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the chicken; cook and stir until completely browned. Season with the crushed red pepper, salt, and black pepper. Pour the chicken stock over the mixture. Stir the sweet potatoes into the liquid and bring the mixture to a boil; reduce heat to low, cover the pot partially with a lid, and cook at a simmer for 15 minutes.
  • Stir the tomatoes, collard greens, and peanut butter into the soup. Partially cover the pot again and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, another 20 minutes.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 730.6 calories, Carbohydrate 44.9 g, Cholesterol 70.1 mg, Fat 43.8 g, Fiber 11.1 g, Protein 45.5 g, SaturatedFat 7.7 g, Sodium 1470.3 mg, Sugar 14.5 g

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African cuisine is a rich and diverse array of dishes that reflect the continent's diverse cultural and regional identities. One of the most popular dishes in African cuisine is vegetable stew, which is a hearty and nutritious meal made with a combination of fresh vegetables and spices. African vegetable stew recipes are simple and easy to make, requiring only a few ingredients, yet producing a flavorful and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

There are several vegetables commonly used in African vegetable stew recipes. These include:

  • Sweet potatoes
  • Okra
  • Eggplant
  • Tomatoes
  • Onions
  • Garlic
  • Peanuts

In addition to these vegetables, many African vegetable stew recipes also include spices such as cumin, paprika, and coriander. Some also add a spicy kick with the use of chili peppers or hot sauce.

Preparation

Most African vegetable stew recipes begin with the preparation of the vegetables. Sweet potatoes are peeled and diced, okra is sliced, onions and garlic are chopped, and tomatoes are diced. The vegetables are then cooked in a pot with a bit of oil until they are tender.

Many African vegetable stew recipes also call for the use of peanuts, which are ground into a paste and added to the stew for additional flavor and thickness. The peanuts are typically roasted before being ground to release their natural oils and enhance their flavor.

Regional Variations

African vegetable stew recipes vary depending on the region and cultural influences. For example, West African vegetable stew recipes may include plantains, yams, or cassava, while North African vegetable stew recipes may feature couscous or chickpeas.

In Southern Africa, vegetable stew recipes often include the use of beans, particularly mung beans or cowpeas. These stews are usually served with a carbohydrate such as maize meal or rice, providing a complete and filling meal.

Health Benefits

African vegetable stews are not only delicious, they are also incredibly healthy. Vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a great choice for those looking to improve their health.

In addition, many African vegetable stew recipes include peanuts, which are a good source of protein and healthy fats. Peanuts are also rich in antioxidants and have been shown to help reduce the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

Conclusion

African vegetable stew recipes are a testament to the rich and diverse culinary traditions of the continent. They are easy to make, delicious, and packed with nutrients. Whether you're looking to explore new flavors or simply add more vegetables to your diet, African vegetable stews are a great choice.

African vegetable stews are winners in the kitchen. They are easy to make, flavorful, nutritious, and customizable. They can be thick or soupy, spicy or mild, and can be made with any vegetable combination of your choice. In this article, we will give you some valuable tips for making African vegetable stews that will be a hit at every mealtime.

1. Use the Right Vegetables

The choice of vegetables is key when making African vegetable stew. You should choose vegetables that complement each other both in taste and texture. Some of the ideal vegetables for making African vegetable stew include okra, pumpkin, eggplant, tomato, spinach, collard greens, sweet potato, onion, and bell pepper. Ensure that the vegetables are fresh and ripe for maximum flavor and nutrition.
Tips for Choosing Vegetables
  • Choose ripe vegetables that are in season for maximum nutrients and flavor.
  • Inspect the vegetables for any damage or rot and discard any that are not fresh.
  • Choose vegetables with different textures and colors to create a visually appealing and nutrient-dense dish.
  • Wash and clean the vegetables thoroughly before using them.

2. Add Spices and Seasonings

African vegetable stew is known for its bold and complex flavors. A combination of spices and seasonings is used to create a depth of flavor that is both savory and spicy. Some of the essential spices and seasonings that go into making African vegetable stew are cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, ginger, garlic, onion powder, and chili powder. You can also add fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, and cilantro to add more flavor and nutrients.
Tips for Adding Spices and Seasonings
  • Measure the spices accurately to ensure a balanced flavor profile.
  • Experiment with different spice combinations to create unique and flavorful stews.
  • Toast the spices before adding them into the stew for a rich and aromatic flavor.
  • Use fresh herbs sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.

3. Cook the Vegetables Properly

Cooking vegetables correctly is essential to ensure that they retain their nutrients and texture. You can cook the vegetables in different ways, including boiling, steaming, frying, or roasting. Some vegetables require longer cooking times than others, so you should cook them separately, then add them to the stew later. Overcooked vegetables can turn mushy and lose their nutrients, so ensure that you monitor them closely as they cook.
Tips for Cooking Vegetables
  • Cut the vegetables into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
  • Cook the vegetables in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pot.
  • Do not overcook the vegetables as this can cause them to become mushy and lose nutrients.
  • Use a variety of cooking methods to add different textures and flavors to the dish.

4. Use the Right Cooking Equipment

The right cooking equipment can make all the difference when making African vegetable stew. Using the wrong equipment can cause the stew to burn, stick to the pot, or become too watery. A cast-iron Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for making stew because they distribute heat evenly and retain heat well. You should also have a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring the ingredients without scratching the pot's surface.
Tips for Using the Right Cooking Equipment
  • Invest in a high-quality cast-iron Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot for making stews.
  • Ensure that the pot has a tight-fitting lid to prevent steam from escaping and moisture loss.
  • Use a wooden spoon or spatula to stir the ingredients without scratching the pot's surface.
  • Do not use metal utensils on non-stick pots as this can damage the coating.

5. Serve with the Right Accompaniments

African vegetable stew is usually served with a starch such as rice, bread, or ugali. The starch helps to balance out the spiciness of the stew and adds a filling component to the meal. You can also serve the stew with a side of fresh salad or pickled vegetables for added nutrition and flavor.
Tips for Serving the Stew
  • Choose the right type of starch to serve with the stew, depending on your preference.
  • Consider serving the stew with a side of fresh salad or pickled vegetables for added nutrition and flavor.
  • Garnish the stew with fresh herbs or chopped nuts to add more flavor and texture.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze for later use.

Conclusion

African vegetable stew is a delicious, nutritious, and customizable meal that can be made with any combination of vegetables. By following the tips outlined in this article, you will be able to create stews that are packed with flavor, nutrients, and visual appeal. Remember to use fresh, ripe vegetables, add the right spices and seasonings, cook the vegetables correctly, use the right equipment, and serve the stew with the right accompaniments. With these tips, you will be able to make African vegetable stews that will impress your family and friends every time.

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