If you’ve been following our journey, or caught our July newsletter (and if you haven’t, be sure to sign up!), you’ll know we’ve embarked on a new culinary adventure—sharing our favorite
Sierra Leone food recipes with you!
We’re kicking off with a dish that evokes the warmth and comfort of home for many of us—a true gem from Sweet Salone’s rich culinary heritage. Groundnut stew is one of Sierra Leone’s most cherished and flavorful dishes, bringing back memories of childhood meals enjoyed with family. While every household has its own unique recipe, we’ve crafted a version that incorporates ingredients accessible no matter where you are in the world.
A Taste of Tradition with a Twist
The heart of this dish is beef, but feel free to experiment with different proteins like chicken, tofu, or even white beans for a vegan-friendly version. To enrich the stew further, consider adding vegetables like sweet potatoes, kale, or spinach, which blend beautifully with the creamy peanut flavor.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 500 g stewing meat (chuck beef or round steak)
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup oil
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 tsp vegetable bouillon powder
- 1 large onion, chopped or sliced
- 1 large pepper, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt
Step-by-Step Guide to a Delicious Groundnut Stew
- Prepare the Meat: Begin by seasoning the meat with vegetable bouillon and cayenne pepper. Let the flavors marinate for at least three hours to fully infuse the meat with the spices.
- Brown the Meat: Heat the oil in a large pot and brown the seasoned meat until it develops a rich color. Once browned, add enough water to cover the meat, then simmer it until tender. Once done, remove the meat and set it aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same pot, sauté the chopped peppers and onions until they become soft and aromatic. Then, add the diced tomatoes, mixing them in with 1/2 cup of water to create a thin paste.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked meat to the pot, and stir it into the tomato and vegetable mixture. Add salt to taste and allow the stew to simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes. This will help meld all the flavors together, creating a rich and hearty dish.
- Serve with Style: Groundnut stew is traditionally served with rice, but you can also enjoy it with boiled yam or cassava. For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle some fresh coriander on top before serving. You might also like to add a few lemon wedges for drizzling or a sprinkle of lemon zest for a gourmet finish.
Bringing Sierra Leone’s Flavors to Your Table
This groundnut stew recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a connection to Sierra Leone’s vibrant culinary tradition, made accessible no matter where you are. Whether you’re revisiting a childhood favorite or trying this dish for the first time, we hope it brings a little bit of Sweet Salone into your kitchen.
Cooking is a beautiful way to experience different cultures, and by sharing this recipe, we aim to make
Sierra Leone’s rich food culture more accessible and appreciated. Enjoy the process of making this stew, and remember that every ingredient tells a story of home, tradition, and love.
