Babenda with a Twist

Ingredients

• 2 cups (470ml) peanut butter 2 cups (470ml) peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, grated 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and diced 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup (240ml) okra, sliced 1 cup (240ml) okra, sliced
• 2 cups (470ml) spinach, chopped 2 cups (470ml) spinach, chopped
• 4 cups (940ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (940ml) vegetable broth
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 35g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 8g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine and cook for another minute.
3. 3.
   Add the peanut butter to the pot and stir until it melts and combines with the onion mixture.
4. 4.
   Gradually pour in the vegetable broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
5. 5.
   Add the diced sweet potatoes and sliced okra to the pot. Bring the stew to a simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. 6.
   Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
7. 7.
   Season with salt to taste.
8. 8.
   Serve the Babenda hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Peanut butter — Make sure to use natural peanut butter without added sugar or hydrogenated oils for a healthier and more authentic taste.

Tips & Tricks

• For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the stew before adding the vegetables.
• Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less cayenne pepper according to your preference.
• Serve Babenda with a side of steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors.

Serving advice

Babenda is best served hot, allowing the flavors to meld together. Serve it in bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of freshness.

Presentation advice

To elevate the presentation of Babenda, you can sprinkle some crushed peanuts on top or drizzle a swirl of peanut butter for an artistic touch.