Groundnut Soup (also known as Peanut Soup) with Fufu is another beloved dish in Ghanaian cuisine. The combination of the rich, savory soup with the starchy fufu is perfect for a filling, flavorful meal. Here’s a simple recipe for you to try:
For the Groundnut Soup:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken (you can also use goat, beef, or fish if you prefer)
- 1 cup unsweetened peanut butter (or ground peanuts, if available)
- 2 medium tomatoes, blended or chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper (optional, for flavor and color)
- 1-2 scotch bonnet peppers (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2-3 cups chicken or beef broth (or water)
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground garlic (or fresh garlic if preferred)
- 1 tbsp ground crayfish (optional, for depth of flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or thyme (optional, for extra fragrance)
For the Fufu:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cassava flour (or fufu flour)
- 1-2 cups plantain flour (optional, for traditional texture)
- Water (for cooking)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Groundnut Soup:
- Cook the Protein: Start by seasoning your chicken (or other meat) with a bit of salt, pepper, and ground ginger. In a pot, add the meat and cover with water. Let it cook for about 25–30 minutes (or until the meat is tender).
- Blend the Vegetables: While the meat is cooking, blend the tomatoes, onions, red bell pepper (if using), and scotch bonnet peppers (adjust according to your spice preference).
- Roast the Groundnuts (if using raw peanuts): If you’re using raw peanuts, toast them lightly in a pan over medium heat, then grind them into a smooth paste using a food processor or mortar and pestle.
- Make the Soup Base: In a separate pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the blended vegetables and sauté for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens a bit. Add the tomato paste if you want a richer flavor.
- Add the Peanut Paste: Stir in the peanut butter (or ground peanuts) and mix well. If it’s too thick, add some water or broth to thin it out to your preferred soup consistency.
- Combine: Add the cooked meat and its broth to the peanut mixture. Stir well, then add water or additional broth to reach your desired soup consistency. Let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Season: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and ground garlic. Add ground crayfish and fresh herbs like basil or thyme, if desired.
2. Make the Fufu:
- Prepare the Fufu Flour: In a large pot, bring about 2 cups of water to a boil. Gradually add the cassava flour and plantain flour (if using), stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Stir Until Smooth: Continue to stir vigorously with a wooden spoon for about 10-15 minutes, adding water as needed to keep it smooth and stretchy. The consistency should be thick and stretchy, like dough. Once it’s ready, remove it from the heat.
- Shape the fufu into a ball or scoop portions onto plates.
3. Serve:
- Place a serving of fufu on a plate or in a bowl.
- Ladle the groundnut soup with meat over the fufu.
- Enjoy with a side of fresh chilled palm wine or your favorite drink!
This dish is one of those hearty, rich meals that feel like a warm hug. Would you like any tips on variations or other ways to enjoy Groundnut Soup?