Mafé recipe – West African peanut butter stew with meat

Mafé is one of the most beloved dishes in West Africa, famous for its rich peanut butter sauce, tender meat, and comforting aroma. Popular in Guinea, Mali, Senegal, and neighboring countries, mafé is a deeply satisfying stew that brings together peanuts, vegetables, and slow-cooked spices into a creamy and nourishing meal.

This classic West African recipe is easy to prepare at home and perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Served with rice, fonio, or couscous, mafé delivers warmth, depth, and traditional flavor in every bite.

What Is Mafé?

Mafé is a hearty peanut-based stew made with meat, vegetables, and aromatics simmered slowly until tender. The natural oils from the peanuts emulsify into the broth, creating a smooth, silky sauce with a balance of savory and lightly sweet notes.

While every family prepares mafé a little differently, the foundation remains consistent: peanut paste, tomato, onions, meat, and vegetables. Some versions are thicker and richer, while others are lighter and more broth-like. Regardless of variation, mafé is known for its comforting texture and bold flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 kg beef, lamb, or chicken, cut into pieces
• 1 cup natural peanut butter (unsweetened)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 tomatoes, diced or 1 cup tomato puree
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 potatoes, cubed
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1–2 cups water or broth
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• Oil for cooking
• Optional: cabbage, chili pepper, bay leaf

Instructions

1. Brown the Meat Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the meat and sear on all sides until browned. This step builds depth and enhances the final flavor. Remove the meat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Tomato Base In the same pot, sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent. Add the garlic and tomato paste, stirring continuously for 2–3 minutes to deepen the flavor. Add the diced tomatoes or tomato puree and cook until the mixture thickens and the oil begins to separate slightly.
3. Build the Stew Return the meat to the pot. Add carrots, potatoes, bell pepper, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Pour in enough water or broth to lightly cover the ingredients. Bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Incorporate the Peanut Butter In a bowl, mix the peanut butter with a ladle of warm broth until completely smooth. Slowly pour the peanut mixture into the pot, stirring continuously to prevent clumping.
5. Simmer Slowly Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The sauce should become thick, glossy, and aromatic as the peanut butter fully integrates.
6. Adjust and Rest Taste and adjust seasoning. Add more water if you prefer a lighter sauce. Once the meat is tender and the vegetables are fully cooked, remove from heat and let the mafé rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Mafé is traditionally served with steamed white rice, which absorbs the rich peanut sauce beautifully. It also pairs well with couscous, fonio, or fufu. Many households serve it with fried plantains or a light salad to balance the richness of the stew.

Tips and Variations

For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with chickpeas, eggplant, or sweet potatoes. Adding a bay leaf during simmering enhances aroma. Cabbage adds mild sweetness, while chili peppers bring gentle heat. Always use natural peanut butter without added sugar to preserve authentic flavor.

Storage

Mafé stores extremely well and often tastes even better the next day. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. It also freezes well for up to two months. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to restore its creamy consistency.