Spinach-Beef Stew(West African Dish)
A hearty West African spinach and beef stew flavored with tomatoes, spices, and served with hot cooked rice, perfect for comforting and flavorful meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- About 2 hours before serving, in a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat and brown the stew meat well on all sides.
- Chop one tomato and add it to the pot along with 1 1/2 cups water, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper.
- Cover and cook over low heat for 1 1/2 hours or until the meat is tender.
- Add the remaining sliced onions and cook until softened.
- Stir in the cornstarch to thicken the stew if desired.
- Add fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking until wilted.
- Serve the stew hot over cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, marinate the stew meat in Pam's Best Marinade for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have fresh spinach, you can use frozen spinach—just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the stew. For a spicier kick, consider adding more crushed red pepper according to your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spinach-beef stew hot over 4 cups of cooked rice for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Jerri's Jumpin' Juice for a refreshing drink. You can also offer a side of crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce or a simple salad to balance the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spinach-beef stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if the stew has thickened. It can also be reheated in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach-Beef Stew(West African Dish) contains roughly 1032 calories, with 12g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 68g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (80% of the Daily Value), protein (24% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this stew?
Yes, you can substitute stew meat with chicken or lamb if preferred. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken will cook faster than beef. Use boneless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the beef with hearty vegetables such as mushrooms and eggplant, and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can also add beans for protein and adjust the seasoning to taste.
What can I do if my stew is too thick?
If your stew turns out too thick, simply add a bit of water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Stir well and let it simmer for a few extra minutes to combine the flavors.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).