Cameroonian Groundnut Stew with Meat: Authentic Recipe and Preparation Guide from Scratch
🥘 What is Cameroonian Groundnut Stew?
Cameroonian Groundnut Stew, also called Groundnut Soup or Peanut Stew, is a beloved West African dish made with ground peanuts (or peanut butter), meat (usually beef or goat), and a medley of aromatic spices. It’s hearty, creamy, protein-rich, and deeply satisfying.
In Cameroon, it’s commonly served with boiled rice, fufu, or plantains. The creamy peanut base complements the savory meat and spicy seasonings, making it a staple in homes and at celebrations.
🛒 Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Raw peanuts or peanut butter | 2 cups | Roasted, skinless, unsalted or natural peanut butter |
| Meat (beef, goat, or chicken) | 1 kg (2.2 lbs) | Cut into bite-sized chunks |
| Onion | 1 large | Chopped |
| Tomatoes | 2 medium | Blended or finely chopped |
| Garlic cloves | 3–4 | Minced |
| Ginger | 1 thumb-size piece | Grated |
| Scotch bonnet pepper | 1 (optional) | For heat |
| Seasoning cubes | 2–3 | Maggi or bouillon cubes |
| Salt | To taste | |
| Palm oil or vegetable oil | 3 tablespoons | For frying |
| Water | 4–6 cups | Adjust for consistency |
| Scent leaves, basil, or spinach | 1 handful | Optional garnish for aroma and flavor |
🔪 Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
✅ Step 1: Prepare the Meat
- In a pot, season the meat with salt, 1 chopped onion, 1 seasoning cube, garlic, and ginger.
- Add 1 cup of water and boil for 20–30 minutes until tender.
- Remove meat and reserve the broth for the stew.
✅ Step 2: Prepare the Groundnut Paste
- If using raw peanuts:
- Roast them until golden brown, allow to cool, and grind into a smooth paste.
- If using peanut butter:
- Use unsweetened, natural peanut butter.
✅ Step 3: Cook the Groundnut Base
- In a clean pot, heat 2–3 tablespoons of oil.
- Add onions and fry until soft and translucent.
- Add blended tomatoes, garlic, and optional pepper. Cook for 10–12 minutes until the tomato base is thick and oil begins to rise.
✅ Step 4: Add Peanut Paste and Simmer
- Stir in the peanut paste. Mix well to combine with the tomato base.
- Add the reserved meat stock gradually while stirring to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Allow to simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
✅ Step 5: Add Meat and Finish the Stew
- Add the boiled meat to the peanut sauce.
- Season with salt, more seasoning cubes, and any additional spices to taste.
- Simmer for another 15–20 minutes until the oil separates and floats to the top—a sign that the stew is well-cooked.
- Add fresh herbs like scent leaves or spinach in the final 5 minutes (optional).
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Cameroonian Groundnut Stew pairs deliciously with:
- White rice
- Cassava fufu
- Yam
- Plantains (boiled or fried)
- Couscous (Cameroonian style)
💡 Cooking Tips
- Avoid burning the peanut base: Stir regularly and cook on medium heat.
- Use homemade groundnut paste for a richer flavor than commercial peanut butter.
- Make it vegetarian by substituting meat with mushrooms, tofu, or boiled eggs.
🔄 Variations
- Smoked fish or dried crayfish can be added for a smoky taste.
- Palm oil gives it a more traditional, richer flavor.
- Use green vegetables like bitterleaf for added depth.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I freeze groundnut stew?
A: Yes! It freezes well in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Q: What meat works best for this stew?
A: Beef, goat meat, or chicken are most common. For a deeper flavor, try using smoked turkey or tripe.
Q: Is groundnut stew spicy?
A: It can be, depending on how much hot pepper you use. Adjust to your taste.
🏁 Final Thoughts
Cameroonian Groundnut Stew with Meat is a true celebration of bold African flavors. Its creamy texture and aromatic depth make it a comforting and satisfying dish for any occasion. Whether you’re new to Cameroonian cuisine or a seasoned cook, this step-by-step guide will help you make it authentically from scratch.
