Name: Mafe (Senegalese Peanut Stew) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: West African
Ingredients: 2 lbs stew beef, cut into smaller pieces; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 onion, chopped; 1 cup water; 2 cups stock/broth; ¼ cup olive oil; ½ cup peanut butter; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 tablespoon beef bouillon powder; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon salt, plus pinch of salt for browning beef; 1 teaspoon black pepper

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 24 reviews

If you’ve never experienced the rich, comforting flavors of West Africa, this Mafe (Senegalese Peanut Stew) Recipe is your perfect introduction—it’s a hearty, deeply satisfying dish that combines tender beef, creamy peanut butter, and vibrant spices in one soul-warming pot. Whether you’re new to African cuisine or a longtime lover, this stew is the kind of meal that feels like a big, warm hug on a plate, with every ingredient playing a key role in building layers of taste and texture you’ll want to savor again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with thick chunks of brown, tender meat stew covered in a rich, smooth sauce. The stew is garnished with roughly chopped fresh green herbs scattered on top, adding a pop of color and freshness. In the background, there's a blurred part of a white bowl with creamy mashed potatoes and a glass of water, all set on a white marbled surface. The lighting highlights the moist texture of the meat and the glistening sauce. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started on this Mafe (Senegalese Peanut Stew) Recipe means gathering some wonderfully simple ingredients that each bring something special to the table. From the nutty depth of peanut butter to the fresh brightness of red bell pepper, every item contributes to the dish’s irresistible harmony of flavor and color.

2 lbs stew beef: Choose a cut with some marbling for tender, flavorful meat.
½ cup peanut butter: Adds richness and the signature creamy texture of the stew.
1 red bell pepper: Brings a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
2 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies the stew’s savory base and gives it a lovely depth.
1 onion: Builds the aromatic foundation with its natural sweetness.
1 tablespoon beef bouillon powder: Amplifies the beefy flavor for a fuller taste.
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Offers a gentle heat that brightens the stew without overpowering it.
¼ cup olive oil: Used for sautéing, creating a beautiful caramelization on the beef and veggies.
1 teaspoon salt to taste: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle spice and complexity to the beef.
1 cup water: Builds the stew’s base liquid, helping everything meld together.
2 cups stock/broth: Richens the stew and contributes to its comforting body.
Pinch of salt to brown the beef: Helps draw out the moisture for a better sear and deeper flavor.

How to Make Mafe (Senegalese Peanut Stew) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by giving your stew beef a good rinse and chopping it into smaller, bite-sized pieces. This helps the beef cook evenly and soak up all the luscious flavors to come. Heat the olive oil over medium heat, then add the beef along with black pepper and that pinch of salt. Sauté it for about 8 to 10 minutes—this step is crucial for building flavor through caramelization, creating a rich, meaty base for your stew.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

While the beef is working its magic, chop your onion and red bell pepper. Toss them into the pan once the beef has developed a lovely crust, then sauté for about 3 minutes. This softens the veggies just enough to release their natural sweetness, balancing the earthiness of the beef. Then stir in the tomato paste and cook it for around 5 minutes—this concentrates the flavor and adds a beautiful, deep color.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasonings

Pour in the water and broth, then sprinkle in the beef bouillon powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. Bringing this mixture to a boil helps all the flavors meld together while the spices infuse the meat and vegetables. Let it cook gently for 5 minutes so everything starts to come together in a warming broth.

Step 4: Incorporate the Peanut Butter

Now it’s time for the star ingredient: peanut butter. Add it gradually while stirring vigorously to ensure it dissolves smoothly into the stew. This step transforms the broth into a silky, nutty, and slightly thickened sauce that distinguishes this dish as a true West African classic. Let the stew simmer for an additional 2 to 5 minutes until it reaches that perfect creamy consistency.

How to Serve Mafe (Senegalese Peanut Stew) Recipe

The image shows two side-by-side shots of a black cooking pot filled with small, browned pieces of meat. On the left, the meat is alone, evenly spread and cooked to a rich brown color with a slightly crispy texture. On the right, the same meat is mixed with diced onions and red bell peppers, creating a colorful contrast with the brown meat and the white marbled surface under the pot. The vegetables add white and bright red layers scattered throughout the meat, giving it a fresh and vibrant look. The pots rest on a white marbled surface with good lighting, showing a clear view of each ingredient. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or cilantro adds a bright herbal note that lifts the rich flavors of the Mafe (Senegalese Peanut Stew) Recipe. You can also toss on some toasted peanuts for an extra crunchy contrast, making each bite exciting and multi-textured.

Side Dishes

Traditionally, this stew is served with hearty rice, but for a lighter twist, cauliflower rice works beautifully here to soak up the sauce without overwhelming the palate. You can also try it alongside simple steamed vegetables or a crusty bread to mop up every last bit of the delicious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun spin, layer the stew over garlic mashed potatoes or even roasted sweet potatoes to add a subtle sweetness that balances the rich, nutty sauce. Serving the Mafe in colorful bowls garnished with edible flowers or microgreens makes it feel special and celebratory—perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Mafe (Senegalese Peanut Stew) Recipe keeps wonderfully in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Just be sure to transfer it to an airtight container to maintain its freshness and prevent the peanut flavors from muting or absorbing other odors.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this stew freezes quite well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It will stay delicious for up to 3 months—perfect for busy days when you need a comforting meal ready to go.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the stew over low heat on the stove or in a microwave, stirring occasionally. If it seems too thick, add a splash of water or broth to bring back that smooth, saucy texture. The flavors often deepen after resting, so reheated Mafe tastes just as amazing, if not better!

FAQs

Can I make Mafe (Senegalese Peanut Stew) Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the beef for hearty vegetables like sweet potatoes, eggplant, or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of beef stock. The rich peanut butter sauce still shines, making it just as comforting and delicious.

What type of peanut butter should I use?

Natural, unsweetened peanut butter is best for this recipe because it preserves the authentic taste and texture without added sugars or oils that can alter the stew’s balance.

Is the stew spicy?

The cayenne pepper adds a gentle touch of heat that enhances the flavor without overwhelming the dish. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste, making it milder or spicier as you prefer.

Can I prepare this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker with the liquids and seasonings. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours for tender beef and deeply developed flavors.

What’s the best way to serve leftovers?

Leftover Mafe tastes fantastic reheated over rice, mashed potatoes, or even pasta. You can also add fresh garnishes like herbs or a drizzle of lemon juice to brighten it up before serving again.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about this Mafe (Senegalese Peanut Stew) Recipe—it’s a beautiful fusion of simple ingredients coming together to create a rich, comforting experience that fills your home with irresistible aromas. I hope you give it a try and discover how delightful and heartwarming a stew can be, becoming one of your favorite go-to dishes in no time.