Riz Sauce Arachide, or Peanut Sauce Rice, is a beloved dish across West Africa, blending the creaminess of ground peanuts with aromatic spices. This rich, flavorful sauce served over steamed rice is a comforting meal that showcases the versatility of African cuisine.

Ingredients:

For the Rice:

2 cups (400 g) white rice

4 cups (1 liter) water

1 teaspoon (5 g) salt

For the Peanut Sauce:

1 cup (250 g) natural peanut butter or ground peanuts

2 cups (500 ml) chicken or vegetable stock

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 medium tomatoes, diced

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tablespoon (15 ml) vegetable oil

1 teaspoon (5 g) paprika

1 teaspoon (5 g) chili powder (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

½ lb (250 g) chicken or beef (optional, for a non-vegetarian version)

Instructions:

Preparing the Rice:

Cook the Rice: Rinse the rice thoroughly. In a medium pot, bring 4 cups (1 liter) of water to a boil. Add salt and the rice. Cover and simmer over low heat for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Preparing the Peanut Sauce:

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until translucent.

Add Tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Incorporate the Peanut Butter: Gradually add the peanut butter while stirring to combine.

Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock and bring to a gentle boil. Stir frequently to avoid sticking. Add paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Optional Meat Addition: If using meat, cook it separately and add to the sauce during the last 10 minutes of simmering.

Serving: Serve the peanut sauce hot over steamed rice. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added flavor. This recipe makes about 4 servings.

Riz Sauce Arachide is a simple yet satisfying dish that combines creamy peanut flavors with fragrant spices. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s a wholesome meal that celebrates African culinary traditions.