Zimbabwean Peanut Butter Stew with Vegetables
This traditional Zimbabwean dish, known locally as Dovi, is a savory and creamy peanut butter stew made with tender vegetables. The combination of rich peanut butter, tomatoes, and various vegetables offers a delightful blend of flavors and nutrients. Often served with rice or sadza, it is a hearty and comforting meal that showcases the culinary heritage of Zimbabwe.
Ingredients:
For the Stew:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 large tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup smooth peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 large carrot, sliced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 cups spinach, roughly chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Cooked rice or sadza (Zimbabwean cornmeal porridge)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Chop the onion, garlic, ginger, tomatoes, carrot, and green beans.
- Roughly chop the spinach.
2. Cook the Base:
- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add Tomatoes and Spices:
- Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot and cook until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the ground cumin and ground coriander, cooking for another minute to release the flavors.
4. Incorporate the Peanut Butter:
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the smooth peanut butter, stirring until it is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
5. Simmer the Vegetables:
- Add the sliced carrot and green beans to the pot.
- Simmer for about 10–15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
6. Finish and Season:
- Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve:
- Serve the Zimbabwean Peanut Butter Stew hot, accompanied by cooked rice or sadza.
Enjoy this delicious and nutritious dish that brings a taste of Zimbabwean cuisine to your table!