African Peanut Stew (Elephant Stew!) - cooking recipe

Ingredients

5 tablespoons oil, divided
2 lbs beef, cut into 1 inch cubes
1/2 cup flour
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1 tablespoon chili powder
4 medium onions, sliced
1 teaspoon minced garlic
5 -6 cups water
1 teaspoon red pepper (or less, to taste)
3/4 cup tomato sauce
1/2 cup chunky peanut butter
peas and carrots (optional)
steamed rice
hot sauce

Preparation

In a large heavy kettle, heat 3 tablespoons oil.
Roll beef cubes in flour, then brown in hot oil.
While this is cooking, add nutmeg and chili powder.
When meat is browned, add onion, garlic, water, red pepper to taste, and tomato sauce.
Simmer until meat is tender, about 1 hour.
If desired, add carrots and peas while stew is simmering.
A few minutes before serving, heat peanut butter and remaining 2 tablespoons oil (this can be done in the microwave).
Stir peanut butter mixture into beef stew over low heat.
Let simmer 15 minutes, until peanut butter is absorbed.
Serve over steamed rice with hot sauce on the side.