Domodah (West African Groundnut Stew)

Groundnuts are what peanuts are called in English-speaking West Africa. Eggplant gives substance, but use whatever vegetables appeal to you. (Non-veggie versions of this dish often include chicken.) I was introduced to this delight by my friend t.d. when he visited me in NYC from The Gambia.
(vegan)

Heat ½- 3/4 cup canola oil in a large pot on medium high heat. Chop together and cook in the oil

• 3 - 4 tomatoes
• 2 large onions
  
• 2 Tablespoons harissa* (or 2 fresh hot peppers or 1 teaspoon cayenne)
  

Add 1-2 cups tomato juice (or water), to make about 6 cups altogether. When it is beginning to simmer, add

• 1½ - 1 3/4 cups good peanut butter
• 2 Tablespoons tomato paste (only if not using harissa, above).
  

Turn the heat to low, and keep cooking.

When it's been simmering for a while, add

• 1 eggplant, cut into small cubes
• and other vegetables you might like, such as yams, potatoes, green beans, squash of any variety, etc.
  

Continue cooking until the vegetables are tender. Serve on a bed of cooked rice or other grain.

*Harissa is a wonderful paste of hot peppers, tomatoes and spices used widely in Francophone northern Africa. Though it isn't traditionally used in this west African dish -- fresh hot peppers are the most authentic ingredient -- I think it gives a wonderful accent. If you can find harissa in a tube, it will keep indefinitely in the refrigerator. If you get the canned version, it is much safer to freeze any amount that won't be used within a few days.