Zimbabwe's Peanut Butter Stew: Dovi

Dovi, a popular dish in Zimbabwe, is a substantial peanut butter stew that has established itself as a standard in the nation's cuisine. Although there are delicious vegetarian versions as well, this delectable dish is frequently made with chicken or beef. Let's investigate the origins and production of this delicious Dovi, a traditional Zimbabwean dish.

The Shona and Ndebele tribes, two of Zimbabwe's main ethnic groups, are where Dovi's ancestors originated. Since ancient times, groundnuts (also known as peanuts) have been grown in the area, and they were a staple food in the diets of the locals. Dovi became a well-known dish as a result of the Zimbabwean people's culinary inventiveness over time.

Traditionally, groundnuts were simmered with a variety of foods, including meat, vegetables, and spices. This mixture developed into the rich, delicious stew that has come to represent Zimbabwean cooking. Dovi has become a representation of the nation's rich culinary heritage thanks to the use of spices like curry powder and paprika, as well as fragrant vegetables and proteins.

Preparation Time

50 minutes

Ingredients

1 whole chicken (cut into pieces) 

1 cup creamy peanut butter

1 onion (chopped)

2 cloves garlic (minced)

1-2 tomatoes (chopped)

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1-2 teaspoons curry powder 

1 teaspoon paprika

1-2 cups water or chicken broth

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh cilantro or parsley (chopped)

Preparation

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes.
• Add the garlic and continue to sauté for another minute until fragrant.
• Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they start to brown on all sides.
• Stir in the curry powder and paprika, coating the chicken evenly with the spices.
• Add the tomatoes and cook for a few minutes until they start to break down and release their juices.
• Pour in the peanut butter and water (or chicken broth). Stir well to combine.
• Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for about 40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. 
• Season the Dovi with salt and pepper.
• Serve the Dovi hot over with rice or sadza (a maize porridge). Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley.