Azin Sounou: The Rich and Flavorful Peanut Sauce of Benin



Peanut sauce, known as **Azin sounou** in Benin, is a creamy, nutty, and delicious staple in Beninese cuisine. This versatile sauce is often paired with **pounded yam**, especially during yam festivals in the central and southern regions of the country. However, it can also be enjoyed with rice, pasta, fufu, or fonio, making it a beloved dish across different communities.  

## **The Star Ingredient: Peanuts**  

Peanuts, the foundation of this sauce, are not just tasty—they’re packed with nutrients. Rich in **protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins (B3, E, B1, B6)**, peanuts also provide minerals like **zinc, magnesium, phosphorus, and iron**. Whether roasted, ground into paste, or turned into sauce, peanuts offer a **boost of energy** and keep you satisfied for hours.  

In Benin, peanut sauce is more than just food—it’s a **cultural experience**. Each family and region has its own unique way of preparing it, with variations in spices, meats (beef, mutton, chicken, or fish), and even additions like **Fulani cheese** for extra richness.  

## **How to Prepare Azin Sounou**  

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this **flavorful Beninese peanut sauce**:  

### **Ingredients:**  
- **Meat** (beef, chicken, or fish)  
- **Fulani cheese** (optional)  
- **10 ripe tomatoes**  
- **Red and green peppers**  
- **2 onions**  
- **2 tablespoons of peanut butter (or freshly ground peanut paste)**  
- **Seasoning cube**  
- **Garlic & ginger**  
- **Salt**  
- **Bay leaf**  
- **Oil**  

### **Instructions:**  

1. **Blend the Base:**  
   - Mix tomatoes, red pepper, onion, garlic, and ginger into a smooth paste.  
   - Slice the remaining onion and green peppers for later.  

2. **Prepare the Meat & Cheese:**  
   - Clean and season the meat with spices.  
   - Cook until tender, then lightly fry for extra flavor.  
   - If using **Fulani cheese**, fry it lightly as well.  

3. **Cook the Sauce:**  
   - In a pot, simmer the blended tomato mixture for **10 minutes**.  
   - Add water, bay leaf, peanut paste, seasoning cube, and spices.  
   - Let it cook for another **10 minutes** until the sauce thickens.  

4. **Combine Everything:**  
   - Add the fried meat and cheese to the sauce.  
   - Adjust salt to taste.  
   - Toss in the sliced onions and green peppers for freshness.  

5. **Serve & Enjoy!**  
   - Pair with **pounded yam, rice, or your favorite starch**.  

![Azin Sounou served with pounded yam](https://visitlebenin.bj/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/azin-sounou-ready.jpg)  

## **Where to Find Azin Sounou in Benin**  

This delicious sauce is widely available across Benin—whether in **local markets, street food stalls, or restaurants**. If you’re visiting, don’t hesitate to ask for it!  

### **Final Thoughts**  

Azin sounou is more than just a meal—it’s a **celebration of Beninese flavors and traditions**. Whether you’re enjoying it at a festival or cooking it at home, its **rich, nutty taste** is sure to leave a lasting impression.  

Have you tried peanut sauce before? What’s your favorite way to eat it? Let us know in the comments!  

---  
**Want more Beninese recipes?** Check out:  
- **[Tévi: Fried Yam, a Beninese Classic](#)**  
- **[Okra Sauce: A Staple Dish in Benin](#)**  
- **[Klèklè: Sweet Plantain Delight](#)**  

**Follow us for more food and travel guides from Benin!**  

© 2025 · Visit Benin · All rights reserved.  


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