Peanut Butter Beef Stew

August 31, 2024
Kitchen

Discover a unique twist on a classic comfort food with this Peanut Butter Beef Stew. Combining tender beef with the creamy, nutty richness of peanut butter, this hearty stew is a delightful fusion of flavours that will warm you up on even the coldest days. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, it’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or for impressing guests with something a bit different.

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs (about 680g) beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 can diced tomatoes, with juice
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the beef on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove the browned beef and set it aside.
  • In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. Add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and chopped bell pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), peanut butter, tomato paste, soy sauce, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavours have melded together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  • Once the stew has thickened and the beef is tender, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  • Ladle the peanut butter beef stew into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot with rice, bread, or your favourite side.

Tips:

For a richer flavour, you can use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy. Add more cayenne pepper if you like your stew spicy, or omit it altogether for a milder version.

This Peanut Butter Beef Stew offers a delightful departure from the ordinary, blending savoury beef with the unexpected richness of peanut butter for a dish that’s both comforting and unique. As the flavours meld together during a long, slow simmer, you’ll enjoy a stew that’s packed with depth and warmth. Serve it up with rice or crusty bread, and savor every delicious spoonful of this flavorful and inventive stew.