Nigerian Kidney Bean Stew with a Peanut Sauce

Experience the vibrant flavors of West Africa with this hearty Nigerian Kidney Bean Stew with a Peanut Sauce. This comforting dish combines tender kidney beans, nutrient-packed greens like spinach or kale, and a luscious, creamy peanut butter-infused sauce that is both savory and slightly nutty. A fragrant blend of spices, including curry powder, paprika, and optional Scotch bonnet pepper, adds warmth and a touch of heat, while fresh tomatoes and red bell peppers provide a burst of brightness. Perfectly balanced and easy to prepare in under an hour, this rich, protein-packed stew is ideal for cozy dinners or meal prep. Serve it over steamed rice, yams, or with flatbreads for a wholesome, satisfying meal that celebrates the bold and nourishing tastes of Nigerian cuisine.

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 400 grams kidney beans (cooked or canned, drained and rinsed)
• 4 tablespoons peanut butter (unsweetened, smooth or crunchy)
• 400 grams tomatoes (fresh, blended or crushed)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 teaspoon ginger (fresh, grated)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or palm oil
• 500 ml broth or water
• 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
• 1 scotch bonnet pepper (optional, finely diced)
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 150 grams spinach or kale (roughly chopped)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional, for serving)

Directions

Step 1

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and the onion is softened.

Step 3

Stir in the curry powder, paprika, and optional scotch bonnet pepper. Cook for another minute to toast the spices.

Step 4

Add the blended or crushed tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5

In a small bowl, whisk the peanut butter with a ladle of broth or water to create a smooth paste. Add this peanut mixture to the pot.

Step 6

Pour the remaining broth or water into the pot and stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 7

Add the kidney beans and red bell pepper. Season with salt and black pepper. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 8

Stir in the chopped spinach or kale and cook for an additional 3–5 minutes until the greens are wilted.

Step 9

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Squeeze lime juice over the stew for a bright, tangy finish (optional).

Step 10

Serve hot with steamed rice, yams, or flatbreads. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1807.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1230.7

Total Fat 64.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 10.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 6013.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 127.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 38.1g	0%
Total Sugars 27.7g
Protein 55.1g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 474.2mg	0%
Iron 18.0mg	0%
Potassium 3954.7mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 44.2%

Protein: 16.9%

Carbs: 38.9%