I recently spent an afternoon cooking with some Congolese friends Florimond and Gisele, and their Congolese Romaine Lettuce Stew with Peanut Sauce blew me away. When I took the first bite, I almost got tears in my eyes because I was so overwhelmed by the fantastic flavor.
I had never heard of stewing romaine lettuce before. They explained to me that while spinach and other dark greens are often used in DR Congo, romaine lettuce is imported as a delicacy, and is revered for the delicate flavor and texture. .
The recipe calls for cherry tomatoes, but you can substitute large tomatoes.


Ingredients
- 3 heads romaine lettuce
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 of a head of celery (several stalks)
- 1 onion
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 bunch scallions
- 10 cherry tomatoes (or 2 large tomatoes)
- 1 small can of tomato paste
- 3/4 – 1 cup natural peanut butter
- garlic salt to taste