How to Make Daraba: A Simple and Healthy Chadian Stew

Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. 

Daraba is a nutritious and flavorful stew that is popular in Chad, a country in Central Africa. It is made with chopped okra, mixed vegetables, tomatoes, stock cubes, and smooth peanut butter, which gives the dish a unique flavor and richness. Daraba is simple, healthy, and inexpensive to make, making it a perfect choice for a delicious and satisfying meal.

 

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Ingredients:

• 1 lb chopped okra
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, green beans, bell peppers, etc.)
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 2 stock cubes
• 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
• 2 cups water
• Salt and pepper to taste 

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or dutch oven, sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant.
2. Add the mixed vegetables and continue to cook until they are tender.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they start to break down and release their juices.
4. Add the chopped okra and stir well to combine. Cook for a few minutes until the okra starts to soften.
5. Dissolve the stock cubes in 2 cups of water and add to the pot. Bring to a boil.
6. Add the smooth peanut butter and stir well to combine. Reduce the heat to low and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Add salt and pepper to taste. 

Tips:

• To make the okra less slimy, you can rinse and pat dry the chopped okra and sauté it in a separate pan with a bit of oil until it starts to brown and lose its slimy texture. Then add it to the pot with the other ingredients.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add some hot sauce or chili flakes to the stew.
• Daraba is traditionally served with rice, boiled cassava, or boiled plantains, but you can also enjoy it with some crusty bread. 

Conclusion: 

Daraba is a delicious and healthy stew that is easy to make and full of flavor. It is a great way to enjoy vegetables and get a dose of protein from the peanut butter. This Chadian dish is a great addition to any meal rotation, and it's perfect for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. 

Alhamdulillah.