Nigerian Beef Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines juicy beef, rich tomatoes, and a mix of spices. It’s perfect for bringing warmth on a chilly day!
This stew is great with rice or bread, making it quite versatile. I love making a big batch so I have leftovers to enjoy for days! Trust me, you’ll want to sprinkle some extra spice on it! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: Using stew meat or chuck gives a tender bite after cooking. If you want something leaner, go for sirloin, but it may not be quite as flavorful or tender.
Tomatoes: Fresh ripe tomatoes are best for flavor. Canned tomatoes can also work in a pinch. If you want a richer taste, a tablespoon of tomato paste enhances the depth of flavor, so don’t skip it!
Red Bell Peppers: These add sweetness to your stew. If you want more heat, consider using chili peppers instead! Experiment with different types for unique tastes and colors.
Vegetable Oil: While I prefer palm oil for its authentic flavor, sunflower oil works too. Olive oil isn’t traditional, but it can be used if you prefer it or have it on hand.
Seasoning Cubes: For those avoiding MSG, use homemade bouillon or a low-sodium alternative. Adjust the salt content accordingly based on what you use!
How Do I Ensure My Beef Stew is Tender and Flavorsome?
A tender beef stew is all about cooking technique and patience. Here’s how to achieve that perfect texture:
- Start by marinating the beef in salt, chopped onions, and seasoning cubes for 15-30 minutes to infuse flavor and help tenderize.
- When cooking, cover the beef with water or stock and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer low and slow for about 1-1.5 hours. This method breaks down the tough fibers making the meat tender.
- Keep an eye on it! Add water or stock when needed to prevent sticking. The goal is to achieve a nice, tender texture that melts in your mouth.
Every stove is different, so taste and check doneness along the way. Happy cooking!
Nigerian Beef Stew
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef (preferably stew meat or chuck), cut into medium cubes
- 4 large ripe tomatoes
- 2 large red bell peppers (or red chili peppers for more heat)
- 1 medium onion (divided: half for beef seasoning, half for blending)
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 inch ginger piece
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (traditionally palm oil or sunflower oil can be used)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons curry powder
- 2 teaspoons thyme
- 2 seasoning cubes or bouillon cubes (like Maggi)
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or scent leaves (optional, for garnish)
- Water or beef stock as needed
Time Needed:
This Nigerian Beef Stew requires about 15-30 minutes of prep time and 1.5 to 2 hours of cooking time. This includes marinating the beef, cooking it until tender, and then simmering the stew to blend the flavors perfectly. It’s a bit of a time investment, but the rewards are well worth it!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Begin by rinsing the beef cubes under cold water. Season them with salt, half of the chopped onion, and one seasoning cube. Allow the beef to marinate for about 15-30 minutes to infuse flavor.
2. Cook the Beef:
Put the seasoned beef into a large pot and cover it with water or beef stock, around 4-6 cups. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 1 to 1.5 hours until the beef is tender. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed. Once tender, set the beef aside and reserve some broth for later use.
3. Make the Pepper Sauce:
While the beef is cooking, blend the tomatoes, the remaining half of the chopped onion, red bell peppers (or chili), garlic, and ginger until you have a smooth mixture.
4. Cook the Stew Base:
In a large skillet or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the tomato paste and fry it for a couple of minutes to eliminate the raw taste.
5. Combine the Ingredients:
Pour the blended pepper mixture into the pan and cook for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally, allowing the sauce to reduce down and the oil to begin separating from the mixture.
6. Add Spices:
Introduce the curry powder, thyme, the remaining seasoning cube, salt, and black pepper to the sauce. Stir well and adjust seasoning based on your taste preferences.
7. Combine Beef and Stew:
Now, add the tender beef pieces back into the pan. Pour in some of the reserved beef broth to achieve your desired thickness for the stew. Let it simmer together for another 10-15 minutes to let those delicious flavors meld.
8. Final Adjustments:
Before you finish up, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. A little salt or extra spice can work wonders!
9. Garnishing:
If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or scent leaves for a pop of color and added flavor.
10. Serving:
Serve the beef stew hot with a side of steamed white rice, yam, fried plantains, or fresh bread. It’s sure to be a hit!
Enjoy your rich, spicy, and flavorful Nigerian Beef Stew!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef for This Stew?
Absolutely! While chuck and stew meat are preferred for their tenderness, you can also use sirloin or brisket. Just be mindful that leaner cuts may not be as tender or flavorful.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Nigerian Beef Stew?
Leftover beef stew can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool it first before refrigerating. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Make This Stew Spicier?
Definitely! You can add more red chili peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper to the blend for extra heat. Adjust the amounts based on your spice tolerance and preference!
What Should I Serve with Nigerian Beef Stew?
This stew is fantastic served with white rice, yam, fried plantains, or crusty bread. For a lower-carb option, try it with roasted vegetables or a simple salad!
