This is Fresh Tomato Spicy Stew Recipe.
To begin with, this rich and spicy tomato stew is, without question, one of the most comforting homemade meals you can prepare. In fact, when made correctly, it delivers not only bold flavor but also deep color and an irresistible aroma.
Additionally, because it is prepared with fresh tomatoes, peppers, garlic, ginger, and grilled chicken, the result is both hearty and satisfying.
At the same time, while this dish has long been popular across African households, it is now increasingly searched for in the United States and the United Kingdom.
As a result, tomato stew has become a highly versatile recipe which can be eaten with Nigerian Local Rice Recipe Moreover, it pairs perfectly with rice, pasta, potatoes, and even bread. Therefore, if you are looking for a flavor-packed tomato stew recipe that truly works, this recipe is exactly what you need.
Why This Fresh Tomato Spicy Stew Is The Best
Currently, home cooks across the US and UK are actively searching for meals that are both simple and flavorful. For example, many people are looking for:
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Easy tomato stew recipes
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Healthy homemade comfort food
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One-pot meals for weekly meal prep
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Bold flavors without processed sauces
Because of this, this tomato stew fits perfectly into modern cooking trends. Not only does it use fresh ingredients, but it also avoids sugar and artificial additives. Consequently, it delivers a restaurant-quality result while still being made entirely at home.
What Is Tomato Stew?
In simple terms, tomato stew is a slow-fried tomato-based sauce made with fresh tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices. However, unlike quick tomato sauces, tomato stew is cooked slowly. As a result, the raw acidity disappears completely, and the oil naturally rises to the top.
Furthermore, in many cultures, tomato stew is considered a foundation dish. For this reason, it is often prepared in large batches. Subsequently, it is served throughout the week with different meals, depending on preference.
Ingredients (Accurate Measurements)-Fresh Tomato Spicy Stew
Main Ingredients
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15 large fresh tomatoes (about 7–8 lbs / 3.5 kg)
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3 medium onions, sliced
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1 small cup habanero peppers (5–6 peppers, grated)
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1 cup vegetable oil (240 ml)
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1 small bulb garlic, grated
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1 small bulb ginger (about 40 g), peeled
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2 kg (4.4 lbs) grilled chicken, pre-cooked
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1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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3 stock cubes
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1 teaspoon curry powder
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon anise spice
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½ cup water (as needed)
Cooking Time
First, here is a clear breakdown of the cooking time:
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Prep time: 25 minutes
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Cook time: 45–50 minutes
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Total time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
How to Make Tomato Stew (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
To start, wash and slice the tomatoes and onions. Then, peel and grate the garlic, ginger, and habanero peppers. After that, set everything aside.
At this stage, preparation is essential because it ensures smoother cooking. In addition, it helps the flavors develop more evenly later on.
Step 2: Steam the Tomatoes
Next, place a clean pot on medium heat. Immediately add the following ingredients:
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Tomatoes
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Onions
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Ginger
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Garlic
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Pepper
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Thyme
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Anise spice
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Salt
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A small splash of oil
As the mixture heats up, allow it to steam uncovered. Meanwhile, the tomatoes will begin to release water. Continue cooking until all the water evaporates completely. As a result, the tomatoes will soften and concentrate in flavor.
Step 3: Blend Until Smooth
Once the tomato mixture has softened and dried, remove it from the heat. Afterward, blend everything until smooth. At this point, you will have a thick and flavorful tomato base, which is essential for a rich stew.
Step 4: Fry the Tomato Paste
Meanwhile, place a clean pot on medium heat and pour in the vegetable oil. Once the oil is warm, add sliced onions. Then, stir until fragrant.
After that, add the curry powder along with a pinch of salt. Immediately afterward, pour in the blended tomato paste.
From here, continue frying while stirring frequently. Over time:
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The sour taste will disappear
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The color will deepen
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The oil will rise to the surface
Importantly, this stage takes 20–25 minutes. Therefore, patience is key, because this step determines the final flavor of the stew.
Step 5: Add Chicken and Simmer
Finally, add a small amount of water to loosen the stew slightly. Then, stir in the grilled chicken and stock cubes.
At this point, reduce the heat. Allow the stew to simmer for 5 minutes. As a result, the chicken absorbs the sauce beautifully. Lastly, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
What to Serve With Fresh Tomato Spicy Stew
Because of its flexibility, tomato stew can be served with many foods. For example, it pairs well with:
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White rice or jollof rice
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Pasta or spaghetti
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Mashed or roasted potatoes
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Fried plantains
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Crusty bread
Therefore, it remains one of the most searched comfort foods in both the US and the UK.
Common Fresh Tomato Spicy Stew Mistakes to Avoid
Not Frying Long Enough
If the tomato paste is under-fried, the stew will taste sour. Therefore, always fry until the oil separates clearly.
Using Too Much Water
Similarly, using too much water weakens the flavor. As a result, the stew becomes thin and bland.
Cooking on High Heat
Cooking on high heat can cause burning. Instead, medium heat ensures even cooking.
Adding Protein Too Early
Since the chicken is already cooked, it should be added last. Otherwise, it may become dry.
Ingredient Substitutions (US & UK Friendly)
If needed, you can easily make substitutions. For instance:
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Fresh tomatoes → Canned whole tomatoes
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Habanero → Scotch bonnet or red chili
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Vegetable oil → Sunflower or canola oil
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Chicken → Beef, turkey, tofu, or mushrooms
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Stock cubes → Chicken or vegetable broth
A Small Cultural Note
Traditionally, tomato stew is cooked in large pots on weekends. Because of this, the aroma alone often signals comfort and togetherness. Today, however, this same dish appears in modern kitchens across London, New York, and beyond. As a result, tomato stew continues to connect cultures through food.
Frequently Asked Questions on Fresh Tomato Spicy Stew
Is tomato stew spicy?
Yes. However, you can easily reduce the pepper for a milder taste.
Can I freeze tomato stew?
Yes. In fact, it freezes well for up to 3 months.
How do I remove tomato acidity?
Simply fry the tomato paste thoroughly. Therefore, no sugar is needed.
Is tomato stew healthy?
Yes. Overall, it is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and protein.
Why This Fresh Tomato Spicy Stew Recipe Works
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First, it uses fresh, accessible ingredients
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Second, it contains no sugar or artificial additives
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Additionally, it is ideal for meal prep
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Moreover, it works well in US & UK kitchens
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Finally, it delivers a consistently rich, non-sour flavor
Conclusion on Fresh Tomato Spicy Stew
In conclusion, if you are searching for a reliable spicy tomato stew recipe, this is one you will return to repeatedly. Not only is it simple, but it is also bold and deeply satisfying. Therefore, it is perfect for both busy weekdays and relaxed weekend cooking.
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