Name: One-Pot African Peanut Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: African
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (optional); 1 yellow onion, finely chopped (about 2 cups); 1 jalapeño, cored and finely chopped; 3–4 garlic cloves, minced (about 2 tablespoons); 2-inch knob ginger, peeled and grated (about 1 tablespoon); 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne (optional); 3 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 (1-lb) sweet potato, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes (about 2 cups); 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (just peanuts and salt); 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup water; 1 bunch collard greens, stems removed and leaves chopped; For Serving: Cooked rice, fresh cilantro, lime juice, crushed roasted peanuts

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

This hearty One-Pot African Peanut Stew is a comforting, nutrient-packed dish made with sweet potatoes, collard greens, creamy peanut butter, and warming spices. Inspired by West African flavors, it comes together in just one pot and delivers a rich, savory, and slightly spicy bowl of plant-based goodness. Serve it with rice, crushed peanuts, and a squeeze of lime for a deeply satisfying meal.

One-Pot African Peanut Stew

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pot simplicity with minimal cleanup
Naturally vegan and gluten-free
Packed with plant-based protein and fiber
Sweet, spicy, and savory flavor profile
Great for meal prep and freezer-friendly
Thick, creamy texture from peanut butter and sweet potatoes
Customizable heat level
Budget-friendly ingredients
Nourishing and filling
Perfect served with rice, lime, and fresh herbs

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Extra virgin olive oil (optional)
Yellow onion, finely chopped
Jalapeño, cored and finely chopped
Garlic cloves, minced
Fresh ginger, minced or grated
Ground cumin
Cayenne pepper (optional)
Tomato paste
Sweet potato, peeled and diced
Creamy peanut butter (made from just peanuts and salt)
Vegetable broth
Water
Collard greens, stems removed and chopped
For serving: fresh cilantro, cooked rice, crushed roasted peanuts, lime juice

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, sprinkle with salt, and cook for 3 minutes until softened.
Stir in the garlic, jalapeño, ginger, cumin, and cayenne. Cook for 3 minutes to release the flavors.
Add tomato paste and stir well. Then mix in the diced sweet potato, peanut butter, vegetable broth, and water.
Bring the mixture to a low boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
Add the chopped collard greens, stir, and cover again. Simmer for another 15 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender and greens are wilted.
Use a spoon to mash some of the sweet potatoes to thicken the stew. Boil uncovered for 5 more minutes.
Serve hot over rice and garnish with cilantro, crushed peanuts, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 bowls
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

No Oil: Skip the olive oil and toast spices dry, then add water with aromatics as in the oil-free method.
Greens Swap: Use kale, spinach, or Swiss chard instead of collard greens.
Nut-Free Option: Substitute sunflower seed butter for a similar creamy effect.
Extra Protein: Add cooked lentils, chickpeas, or tofu cubes.
Spicier: Add extra cayenne or a dash of hot sauce.
Lower Carb: Serve with cauliflower rice or on its own.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating (Stovetop): Heat gently over medium-low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Reheating (Microwave): Microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between, until hot.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes, but the texture will be slightly different. Smooth peanut butter creates a creamier stew.

Is this stew spicy?

It has a mild kick from the jalapeño and optional cayenne. You can adjust to your spice preference.

Can I use frozen greens?

Yes, frozen chopped collard greens or spinach can be added directly to the pot.

What’s the best substitute for collard greens?

Kale, Swiss chard, or spinach work well as substitutes.

Does it need to be served with rice?

No, but rice complements the creamy, rich broth. You can also use quinoa or couscous.

Can I make it in advance?

Yes, this stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.

How can I make it thicker?

Mash more sweet potatoes directly in the pot or simmer uncovered longer to reduce liquid.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Sauté aromatics first, then transfer to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

Is this stew kid-friendly?

Yes, reduce or omit the jalapeño and cayenne for a milder version suitable for kids.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. Bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots can be added for extra bulk and nutrition.

Conclusion

One-Pot African Peanut Stew is a soul-warming dish that’s rich in flavor, nourishing, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re craving something cozy on a chilly evening or need a make-ahead meal to last the week, this stew checks every box. With its creamy texture, hearty vegetables, and punchy toppings, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.