Ifisashi (Zambian Peanut and Spinach Stew)
Ifisashi is a Zambian stew of ground peanuts and spinach, and the peanuts do all the heavy lifting. Blended into a smooth paste, they turn a handful of vegetables into a thick, rich sauce with no meat or dairy at all. Cayenne, cumin and paprika give it a warm edge. Serve it with nshima, the cornmeal porridge it is traditionally eaten with, and use the porridge to scoop it up.
Instructions
Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is soft and translucent.
Stir in the tomato and both bell peppers. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
While they cook, blend the peanuts in a blender or food processor until they form a smooth paste. Add a little water if the machine needs help to get there.
Scrape the peanut paste into the pot and stir it through the vegetables. Pour in enough water to give the stew the thickness you like, and stir until the mixture is even.
Season with the cayenne, cumin, paprika and salt, then taste and adjust. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring now and then, until the flavors have blended and the stew has thickened.
Add the spinach and stir it in. Cook for about 5 more minutes, until the leaves have wilted and are tender.
Take the pot off the heat and let the stew rest for a few minutes before serving. Nshima, a thick cornmeal porridge, is the traditional partner.
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