Rich, creamy, spicy, and deeply comforting, Mafe (also known as Maafe) is one of those dishes that instantly makes you slow down and savor every bite. This iconic Senegalese peanut stew is made with tender beef simmered in a velvety peanut and tomato sauce that’s bold, warming, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding the family on a busy weeknight or cooking something special for a cozy gathering, this African classic delivers big flavor with simple ingredients and minimal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deeply flavorful with a creamy, spicy peanut-tomato sauce
- Quick and easy, ready in about 35 minutes
- Hearty, filling, and perfect for meal prep
- Naturally gluten-free and protein-rich
- Authentic West African comfort food
Ingredients
- Stew beef (2 lbs): Hearty, tender chunks that soak up the rich sauce
- Peanut butter (½ cup): Creates the signature creamy, nutty base
- Red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and depth
- Tomato paste: Provides richness and balanced acidity
- Onion: Builds a savory flavor foundation
- Beef bouillon powder: Enhances umami and depth
- Cayenne pepper: Adds heat and warmth (adjust to taste)
- Olive oil: Used to brown the beef and develop flavor
- Salt: Brings all the flavors together
- Black pepper: Adds subtle heat
- Water: Helps control sauce consistency
- Stock or broth: Deepens flavor and richness
- Pinch of salt: Helps season the beef during browning
How to Make Mafe (Senegalese Peanut Stew)
Prepare the Beef
Wash the beef and cut it into smaller, bite-sized pieces. Smaller pieces cook faster and become more tender in the stew.
Brown the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the beef, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is lightly browned and flavorful.
Build the Flavor Base
Chop the onion and red bell pepper, then add them to the pot. Sauté for about 3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 5 minutes to deepen its flavor and remove any raw taste.
Simmer the Stew
Add the water, stock, beef bouillon powder, cayenne pepper, and salt to taste. Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cook for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Add the Peanut Butter
Stir in the peanut butter until fully dissolved into the sauce. Let the stew cook for 2–5 minutes, stirring gently, until thick, creamy, and glossy. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little water to loosen it.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot with cauliflower rice, regular rice, or your favorite side and enjoy this comforting West African classic.
Tips for Success
- Cut beef into small, even pieces to reduce cooking time
- Stir constantly after adding peanut butter to prevent sticking
- Adjust cayenne pepper to control spice level
- Add water gradually if the stew thickens too much
- Let the stew rest for a few minutes before serving to deepen flavor
Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Recipe Variations
- Chicken Mafe: Swap beef for chicken thighs or drumsticks
- Extra Spicy Mafe: Add a whole habanero pepper while simmering
- Vegetable Mafe: Use sweet potatoes, carrots, and eggplant instead of meat
Serving Suggestions
Mafe pairs beautifully with rice, cauliflower rice, fonio, or even flatbread. Garnish with fresh herbs or serve with a simple cucumber salad to balance the richness.
FAQs
Is Mafe very spicy?
It’s moderately spicy, but you can easily adjust the heat by reducing or increasing cayenne pepper.
Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Yes, Mafe tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
Can I freeze peanut stew?
Absolutely. Store in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
What if my stew is too thick?
Simply add a bit of water or stock and stir until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, smooth natural peanut butter works best. Avoid chunky varieties.
Final Thoughts
This homemade Senegalese Mafe is rich, comforting, and packed with bold African flavors that never disappoint. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out and keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Try it once, and it just might become a regular in your dinner rotation. If you make it, don’t forget to share your experience and favorite way to serve it.
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Mafe (Maafe) – Senegalese Peanut Stew
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Mafe (or Maafe) is an authentic Senegalese peanut stew made in a spicy, creamy peanut and tomato sauce. This rich and hearty African dish is deeply flavorful, comforting, and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs stew beef
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tbsp beef bouillon powder
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup water
- 2 cups beef stock or broth
- Pinch of salt (for browning beef)
Instructions
- Wash the beef and cut into smaller bite-sized pieces.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add beef, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 8–10 minutes until browned.
- Add chopped onions and red bell pepper and sauté for 3 minutes.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for about 5 minutes.
- Add water, stock, bouillon powder, cayenne pepper, and salt to taste.
- Bring to a boil and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Add peanut butter and stir until fully dissolved.
- Let the stew simmer for 2–5 minutes until thickened.
- Serve hot with rice, cauliflower rice, or your favorite side.
Notes
- This recipe serves 6 and contains approximately 6 net carbs per serving.
- Cut beef into smaller pieces to reduce cooking time.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to control spice level.
- Add a splash of water if the stew becomes too thick.
- Chicken can be substituted for beef if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: African
