Cookbook:Ifisashi (Zambian Peanut and Spinach Stew)

Ifisashi is a delicious and hearty Zambian stew made with a flavorful combination of peanuts and spinach. This nutritious dish is a staple in Zambian cuisine and is often served with nshima, a popular Zambian side dish made from cornmeal.

Ingredients

 * 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
 * 1 medium onion, finely chopped
 * 2 cloves of garlic, minced
 * 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
 * 1 medium tomato, diced
 * 1 green bell pepper, diced
 * 1 red bell pepper, diced
 * 2 cups raw shelled and skinned peanuts
 * 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
 * 1 teaspoon ground cumin
 * ½ teaspoon ground paprika
 * Salt, to taste
 * 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

Equipment

 * Large pot
 * Blender or food processor
 * Cutting board
 * Knife

Procedure

 * 1) In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
 * 2) Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent.
 * 3) Add the diced tomato, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
 * 4) Meanwhile, in a blender or food processor, blend the shelled peanuts until they form a smooth paste. You may need to add a little water to achieve the desired consistency.
 * 5) Add the peanut paste to the pot with the cooked vegetables. Stir well to combine.
 * 6) Pour in enough water to reach your desired consistency for the stew. Stir to mix the water with the peanut and vegetable mixture.
 * 7) Season the stew with ground cayenne pepper, ground cumin, ground paprika, and salt to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
 * 8) Let the stew simmer for about 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld and the stew to thicken.
 * 9) Add the chopped spinach to the pot and stir to incorporate it into the stew. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach wilts and becomes tender.
 * 10) Remove the pot from the heat and let the stew rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes, tips, and variations

 * Ifisashi is traditionally served with nshima, a thick cornmeal porridge that complements the flavors of the stew.
 * You can add other vegetables like eggplant or okra to the stew for added taste and nutrition.
 * For a creamier texture, you can blend some of the cooked vegetables along with the peanut paste before adding it back to the pot.
 * Peanuts are a good source of protein, healthy fats, and various vitamins and minerals.
 * Spinach is rich in iron, calcium, and vitamin K.