Groundnut Stew

This year we started a new tradition at our house, the celebration of Kwanzaa. Kwanzaa is a celebration of African American history and culture that occurs December 26th through January 1st each year. Each day highlights a different principle and they include: unity, self-determination, collective work, cooperative economy, purpose, creativity, and faith. The Kinara is a symbol of Kwanzaa that includes a series of 7 candles: 3 red, 1 black, and 3 green, each representing one day. Groundnut stew is a traditional African dish and this version is so healthy and delicious, I encourage you to try it, Kwanzaa or not! (p.s. The kids LOVED it!) Thanks to Carla Hall of ABC's The Chew for the inspiration on this one!!

Groundnut Stew

Ingredients:
-olive oil
-1 clove garlic, minced
-1 bell pepper, chopped
-2 tsp salt
-1/4 tsp black pepper
-1 green or poblano pepper - roasted, peeled, seeded, and diced
-3 Tbs creamy peanut butter
-1 onion, chopped
-2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
-1 1/2 c small red beans
-3 c broth
-1 1/2 tsp grated ginger
-1/2 tsp cumin
-1 (14.5oz) can diced tomatoes
-Lime wedges, chopped peanuts

1. In a saute pan, add 2 Tbs of olive oil and cubed sweet potatoes. Season with salt and cook for 2-3 minutes until the potatoes begin to caramelize.
2. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat and saute onion and garlic until soft.
3. Add potatoes, beans, stock, peppers, tomatoes, and spices. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer for 35-40 minutes until veggies are soft.
4. Take 1/2 c of the hot broth from the pot and put it in a mixing bowl. Whisk in peanut butter until dissolved/creamy. Then add the mixture back into the stew and stir.
5. Serve topped with chopped peanuts and a squeeze of lime juice.