Domoda

Gambia's national dish is Domoda. It's a tasty "groundnut stew" (peanuts) made with whatever vegetables are available at the time, usually pumpkin or sweet potatoes, and a saucy foundation. Whether vegetarian or meat-based, the foundation is the same: Ground peanut paste, fresh tomatoes, and tomato paste combine to make a thick and fragrant sauce. There are also caramelized onions, chicken and tomato stock, and fiery chili peppers. Many sections of Africa have Maggi bouillon cubes, which are often used in African cookery, including this meal. Gambia was a British commonwealth until 1965 when it won independence. It is located in West Africa. The terrain is more fertile than in other regions of Africa, and farming, fishing, and tourism are the mainstays of the Gambia's economy.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef steak or 1 lb chicken breast, cut into ½ inch chunks,1 large onion, diced,2 tablespoons olive oil,3 cloves garlic, minced,3 Roma tomatoes, diced,½ can (3 oz) tomato paste,¾ cup natural, unsweetened peanut butter,4 Maggi or Knorr tomato bouillon cubes,3 cups water, Scotch bonnet chilies, diced, according to heat preference,4 cups pumpkin or sweet potato, diced, Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven. Saute the onions until golden.
• Add the beef and garlic and continue to sauté until the beef is no longer pink. Add the tomatoes and cook for 3 minutes. Add the tomato paste, chilies, peanut butter and stir to combine.
• Add the water and bouillon cubes. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Add squash, cover, and continue to cook for 35-40 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender, stirring occasionally.
• Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot with rice.