Nigerian fried beef stew is a beloved traditional dish that brings rich, smoky flavours to your dinner table. This hearty stew combines tender beef with aromatic spices and fresh tomatoes, creating the perfect comfort food that pairs beautifully with rice, yam, or plantain.

This dish features chunks of beef slow-cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce. The “fried” aspect comes from browning the beef first, which adds incredible depth of flavour to this traditional Nigerian recipe.

Ingredients

For the Beef:

• 2 pounds beef chuck, beef shin or stew meat, cut into chunks
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 inch fresh ginger, minced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 cups water

For the Stew Base:

• 6 large fresh tomatoes, blended
• 2 red bell peppers, blended
• 2 scotch bonnet (atarodo) or habanero peppers (adjust to taste)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/4 cup palm oil or vegetable oil
• 2 Knorr bouillon cubes
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups beef stock (from cooking the beef)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Beef

1. Place beef chunks in a large pot with diced onion, garlic, ginger, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
2. Add water and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 45-60 minutes until beef is tender.
4. Remove beef and strain the stock. Reserve 2 cups of stock for the stew.

Step 2: Fry the Beef

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the cooked beef chunks on all sides until golden. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Stew Base

1. In the same pan, add remaining oil and sliced onions. Cook until softened.
2. Add tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Pour in the blended tomato and pepper mixture.
4. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and oil begins to separate.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

1. Add the fried beef back to the pan.
2. Pour in the reserved beef stock gradually.
3. Add bouillon cubes, curry powder, thyme, and paprika.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Remove bay leaves before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Tips for Perfect Nigerian Beef Stew

• Choose the right cut: Use beef chuck or stew meat for the most tender results
• Blend vegetables smooth: This creates the signature smooth texture of Nigerian stews
• Cook tomatoes thoroughly: Allow the tomato mixture to cook until oil separates for rich flavour
• Adjust spice level: Start with less scotch bonnet and add more to taste
• Make ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day as flavours develop

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months
• Reheating: Warm gently on stovetop, adding water if needed

Nutritional Benefits

This protein-rich stew provides essential nutrients including iron, vitamin C from tomatoes and peppers, and healthy fats. The combination of vegetables and spices also offers antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

 

Enjoy this authentic taste of Nigeria that brings families together around the dinner table!