This hearty Shoko stew is a comforting West African classic that balances the richness of beef with the earthy freshness of spinach. The base is built from a fragrant blend of onions, bell peppers, and ginger, simmered with tomatoes to create a deep, savory sauce. The heat from the chile and cayenne can be adjusted to your preference, making it versatile for different palates. It&# 226;ÂÂs an excellent choice for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a special family meal. Serve it hot over rice or with fufu for a complete, flavorful experience that feels both homestyle and sophisticated.
Shoko (Beef & Spinach Stew)
Description
This hearty Shoko stew is a comforting West African classic that balances the richness of beef with the earthy freshness of spinach. The base is built from a fragrant blend of onions, bell peppers, and ginger, simmered with tomatoes to create a deep, savory sauce. The heat from the chile and cayenne can be adjusted to your preference, making it versatile for different palates. It&# 226;ÂÂs an excellent choice for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a special family meal. Serve it hot over rice or with fufu for a complete, flavorful experience that feels both homestyle and sophisticated.Ingredients
Directions
-
Blend the onions, green bell pepper, hot chile, and canned tomatoes into a smooth puree.
-
Heat the vegetable oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
-
Add the cubed beef to the pot and brown on all sides, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes.
-
Pour in the blended vegetable puree and add the minced ginger, sugar, salt, and cayenne pepper.
-
Stir well to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil.
-
Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours until the beef is tender.
-
Add the water or beef broth if the stew appears too thick, stirring to incorporate.
-
Stir in the fresh spinach and cook uncovered for 3-5 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
-
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or cayenne if desired.
-
Serve hot immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 350.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 12.0g19%
- Saturated Fat 3.0g15%
- Cholesterol 75.0mg25%
- Sodium 450.0mg19%
- Total Carbohydrate 15.0g5%
- Dietary Fiber 4.0g16%
- Sugars 8.0g
- Protein 40.0g80%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For a deeper flavor, you can marinate the beef in a little of the blended mixture for 30 minutes before cooking.
If you prefer a milder stew, reduce the amount of hot chile or cayenne pepper.
This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serve with rice, couscous, fufu, or plantains for a complete meal.
