West African Peanut Soup: A Rich and Flavorful Delight

West African Peanut Soup, also known as Groundnut Soup, is a deeply flavorful and comforting dish that is popular across West Africa. This hearty soup combines the rich, nutty taste of peanuts with the aromatic flavors of spices and vegetables, creating a unique and delicious meal that can be enjoyed at any time of the year. 

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened peanut butter (smooth or crunchy, according to preference)
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with their juice
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (optional)
• 4 cups chopped spinach or kale
• Cooked rice, for serving
• Chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base: In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the onion and garlic until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), red bell pepper, tomato paste, cayenne pepper, and ground ginger. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened.
2. Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the peanut butter until fully integrated into the broth, ensuring there are no lumps.
3. Simmer: If using, add the shredded chicken to the pot. Allow the soup to simmer gently for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The soup should slightly thicken.
4. Add Greens: Stir in the spinach or kale and cook until the greens are wilted and tender, about 5 minutes. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Ladle the soup over bowls of cooked rice, making sure each serving gets a generous amount of greens and chicken (if used). Garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro.

Serving Suggestions:

This soup is incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit vegetarian diets by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth. It’s traditionally served with rice, but it can also be enjoyed with a side of crusty bread or over quinoa for a gluten-free option. The soup’s rich and creamy texture, combined with its hearty ingredients, makes it a fulfilling meal on its own.