West African soup, particularly the well-known West African Peanut Soup (also called Maafe or groundnut soup), is a hearty, spicy, and creamy soup made primarily with peanuts or peanut butter, tomatoes, and a variety of vegetables and sometimes meat. It is a staple in West African cuisine, loved for its rich, nutty flavor combined with savory and spicy notes.
Common Characteristics
- The soup is often made with peanut butter or ground peanuts, which give it a creamy texture and distinct flavor.
- Ingredients commonly include tomato paste or crushed tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens like spinach or kale.
- It can be vegetarian or include meat such as chicken or beef.
- The soup is typically seasoned with spices like smoked paprika, white pepper, chili (such as scotch bonnet or cayenne), and sometimes fresh herbs like cilantro.
- It is served hot, often accompanied by rice or eaten as a stew.
Typical Ingredients in a Classic Recipe
- Onion, garlic, ginger
- Sweet potatoes or other root vegetables
- Tomato paste or crushed tomatoes
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Peanut butter or ground peanuts
- Leafy greens like spinach or kale
- Meat optionally (chicken or beef)
- Spices like chili, smoked paprika, white pepper
- Garnishes often include chopped peanuts, green onions, and fresh cilantro
Preparation
The cooking usually starts by sautéing aromatics (onion, garlic, ginger) with vegetables like sweet potatoes, adding tomato paste or tomatoes for richness, and then simmering with broth. Peanut butter is tempered with hot soup before mixing in to avoid clumping and then combined with beans or meat, leafy greens, and spices. The soup is simmered until thick and flavorful. This West African soup is both comforting and nutritious, balancing the creamy richness of peanuts with the acidity of tomatoes and the warmth of spices for a unique culinary experience.
