Malian peanut butter stew, locally called Tigadèguèna in Bambara, is one of West Africa’s most iconic dishes. Rich, creamy and deeply comforting, this traditional mafé recipe combines peanut paste, tomato base and slow-cooked meat into a hearty family meal served with white rice.

More than just a recipe, mafé represents hospitality, generosity and shared meals across Mali 🇲🇱 and neighboring countries.

🥜 What is Mafé (Tigadèguèna)?

Mafé — also spelled maafe or maffé — is a peanut-based stew widely prepared in Mali, Senegal, Guinea and The Gambia.

In Mali, Tigadèguèna literally means:

• Tiga = peanut
• Dèguèna = sauce

The Malian version is typically thicker and creamier than other regional variations.

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 6)

• 500 g (1 lb) beef or lamb
• 4–5 tablespoons natural peanut butter (unsweetened)
• 2 fresh tomatoes or 200 g tomato paste
• 1 large onion
• 2 carrots
• 1 African eggplant (or regular eggplant)
• 1 potato (optional)
• 1 stock cube
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1.5 liters (6 cups) water
• Salt and black pepper
• Fresh chili (optional)

👨🏾‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Brown the meat

Heat oil in a large pot and sear the meat until lightly browned.

2️⃣ Add onion

Stir in sliced onion and cook until translucent.

3️⃣ Add tomato

Add blended tomatoes or tomato paste. Cook until oil begins to separate slightly.

4️⃣ Add peanut mixture

Dilute peanut butter in warm water to avoid lumps. Pour into the pot and stir well.

5️⃣ Add vegetables

Add carrots, eggplant and potato.

6️⃣ Simmer gently

Add remaining water, cover and simmer on low heat for at least 45 minutes.

🔎 Chef’s tip:
Peanut stew must simmer gently. High heat may cause the sauce to split.

🥗 Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving – Estimated)

• Calories: 550–650 kcal
• Protein: ~30 g
• Healthy fats: High (from peanuts)
• Fiber: ~6 g

Peanut butter provides plant-based protein and healthy fats, making this stew filling and energy-rich.

For a balanced meal, serve with moderate portions of white rice (about 150 g cooked).

🌍 Regional Variations

• Senegalese mafé (often slightly thinner)
• Chicken mafé
• Smoked fish peanut stew
• Vegetarian peanut stew
• Lamb peanut stew

We will publish detailed variations soon.

❓ FAQ Section

Is mafé the same as peanut butter stew?

Yes. Mafé is the West African name for peanut butter stew. In Mali, it is called Tigadèguèna.

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Can I make mafé vegetarian?

Yes. You can replace meat with vegetables, tofu or plant-based protein alternatives.

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Why did my peanut stew separate?

This happens when:

• Heat is too high
• Peanut butter was not diluted
• The stew was not stirred properly

Always cook on low heat.

Recipe tested, prepared and photographed by Soumare.Media editorial team.

🇫🇷 Lire la version française :
Recette authentique de la Sauce Mafé malienne (Tigadèguèna)