Mafé (Maafe) – Authentic Senegalese Peanut Stew

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Mafé, also known as Maafe, is a rich and comforting Authentic Senegalese Peanut Stew celebrated across Senegal and beyond. This deeply flavorful dish combines tender meat, creamy peanut butter, and a savory tomato base into a hearty stew that feels both indulgent and nourishing. Bold spices, simple ingredients, and one-pot convenience make this traditional African recipe a timeless favorite for family meals and special gatherings alike.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs stew beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ cup natural peanut butter (unsweetened)
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon beef bouillon powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 cup water
• 2 cups beef or chicken stock

Instructions For Authentic Senegalese Peanut Stew

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the beef, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Sauté until browned, about 8–10 minutes.
3. Stir in the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
4. Add tomato paste and cook for 5 minutes, stirring to deepen the flavor.
5. Pour in water, stock, bouillon powder, cayenne pepper, and remaining salt.
6. Bring to a gentle boil and simmer for 5 minutes.
7. Stir in peanut butter until fully dissolved and smooth.
8. Simmer for 2–5 minutes, or until the stew thickens and the meat is tender.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Pro Tips

• Use natural peanut butter for the best flavor and texture.
• Cut beef into small pieces to reduce cooking time.
• Stir frequently after adding peanut butter to prevent sticking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deep, bold West African flavors
• Creamy and satisfying without dairy
• Naturally gluten-free and low carb
• Easy one-pot meal with minimal cleanup

Substitutions & Variations

• Protein: Swap beef for chicken, lamb, or goat meat.
• Vegetarian: Replace meat with sweet potatoes, squash, or chickpeas.
• Spice Level: Add chili flakes or a whole habanero for extra heat.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide

• Make-Ahead: Prepare up to 2 days in advance; flavors deepen overnight.
• Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of water or stock.

Serving Ideas For Authentic Senegalese Peanut Stew

• Steamed white rice or jasmine rice
• Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
• Traditional African sides like fufu or couscous

Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)

• Calories: ~443 kcal
• Protein: ~39 g
• Carbohydrates: ~8 g
• Fat: ~29 g
• Fiber: ~2 g

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Maafe made of?

Maafe is made with peanut butter, tomato paste, spices, vegetables, and meat, simmered into a thick stew.

Is peanut stew spicy?

It can be mildly spicy or hot, depending on how much chili or cayenne is used.

Can I make Maafe in a slow cooker?

Yes. Brown the meat first, then cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 4 hours.

Is Maafe keto-friendly?

Yes, when served with low-carb sides like cauliflower rice.

Mafé is a true celebration of African comfort food, offering bold flavors, creamy texture, and soul-warming satisfaction. Whether you’re discovering African cuisine for the first time or recreating a beloved classic, this Senegalese peanut stew delivers unforgettable taste in every spoonful.

Mafé (Maafe) – Authentic Senegalese Peanut Stew

Ovalioekrg

Mafé, also known as Maafe, is a rich Senegalese peanut stew made with tender beef, creamy peanut butter, tomatoes, and warm spices simmered together in one pot.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Senegalese, West African

Servings 6 servings

Calories 443 kcal

Equipment

• large pot or Dutch oven
• wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• knife and cutting board

Ingredients

  

• 2 lbs stew beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 0.5 cup natural peanut butter, unsweetened
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp beef bouillon powder
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 0.25 cup olive oil
• 1 cup water
• 2 cups beef or chicken stock

Instructions

 

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add the beef, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Sauté until browned, about 8–10 minutes.
• Stir in the diced onion and chopped red bell pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
• Add tomato paste and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often to deepen flavor.
• Pour in water, stock, bouillon powder, cayenne pepper, and remaining salt. Bring to a gentle boil and simmer for 5 minutes.
• Stir in peanut butter until fully dissolved and smooth.
• Continue simmering for 2–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until stew thickens and meat is tender.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

Notes

Use natural, unsweetened peanut butter for authentic flavor. Stir frequently after adding peanut butter to prevent sticking. This stew tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.

Keyword african peanut stew, maafe, mafe, senegalese peanut stew

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