Name: Tomato Stew
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-485132H49M23S
Total time: PT-485132H49M23S
Cuisine: West African
Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes (or canned tomatoes); Onion; Red bell pepper; Scotch bonnet pepper (optional, for heat); Garlic; Ginger; Palm oil (or vegetable oil); Tomato paste; Seasoning cubes or powder; Salt to taste; Water or broth (for consistency); Protein of choice (e.g., chicken, beef, fish, or tofu)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tomato Stew is easy to prepare, full of bold flavors, and incredibly versatile. It uses simple ingredients like fresh tomatoes, onions, and spices, yet delivers a complex, rich flavor that can transform any meal. You can enjoy it with rice, fufu, plantains, or even as a topping for fried eggs. The best part is that it can be customized with different proteins, such as chicken, beef, or fish, making it suitable for any diet or preference.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh tomatoes (or canned tomatoes)
Onion
Red bell pepper
Scotch bonnet pepper (optional, for heat)
Garlic
Ginger
Palm oil (or vegetable oil)
Tomato paste
Seasoning cubes or powder
Salt to taste
Water or broth (for consistency)
Protein of choice (e.g., chicken, beef, fish, or tofu)

Directions

Blend the tomatoes, red bell pepper, scotch bonnet pepper (if using), garlic, and ginger until smooth. You can also chop the vegetables finely if you prefer a chunkier stew.
Heat palm oil (or vegetable oil) in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes to bring out its deep flavor.
Add the blended tomato mixture to the pot. Cook on medium heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the stew thickens and the oil begins to float to the top.
Stir in the seasoning cubes or powder and salt to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
Add a bit of water or broth if you prefer a thinner consistency. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
If adding a protein (e.g., chicken, beef, or fish), add it at this stage and simmer for another 10-15 minutes until cooked through and the flavors have melded.
Serve hot with rice, fufu, plantains, or any side of your choice.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 40-50 minutes

Variations

Add a protein like chicken, beef, goat meat, or fish to make it a complete meal.
For a more intense flavor, you can roast the tomatoes, peppers, and onions before blending.
Use a variety of bell peppers or hot peppers for different flavor profiles.
Add vegetables like carrots or green beans for more texture and nutrition.
For a vegan version, simply skip the meat and use tofu or beans as a protein source.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Tomato Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. This stew can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What makes Nigerian Tomato Stew different from other tomato-based stews?

The use of palm oil, scotch bonnet peppers, and seasoning cubes gives Nigerian Tomato Stew its distinct flavor, while the method of cooking the tomato paste until it’s darkened and caramelized adds a rich depth to the stew.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, canned tomatoes work perfectly for this recipe. You can also use a combination of fresh and canned for a balanced flavor.

Is this stew spicy?

It can be, depending on how much scotch bonnet pepper you use. You can adjust the spice level by adding less or omitting it entirely.

Can I make this stew without palm oil?

Yes, vegetable oil can be used as a substitute. However, palm oil is traditional in Nigerian cuisine and contributes to the distinctive flavor of this dish.

What are some common side dishes to serve with Tomato Stew?

Tomato Stew pairs well with rice, fufu, pounded yam, plantains, or boiled potatoes.

How do I make this stew thicker?

Cook it longer, allowing the tomato mixture to reduce and the oil to rise to the top. You can also add a small amount of tomato paste.

Can I add meat to this stew?

Absolutely! Chicken, beef, fish, or goat meat are all excellent choices to add to this stew for more flavor and protein.

Can I make this stew in advance?

Yes, this stew holds up well and can be made ahead. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld.

How do I adjust the seasoning?

Taste the stew and add more seasoning cubes, salt, or broth as necessary. You can also balance the acidity with a small amount of sugar if desired.

Can I freeze Tomato Stew?

Yes, you can freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Just store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, and reheat when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Nigerian Tomato Stew is a rich, flavorful, and versatile dish that is a must-have in any West African kitchen. With its bold ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or even special occasions. Whether served with rice, fufu, or plantains, this hearty stew will bring warmth and satisfaction to your table.