Kizaca
Cassava Leaves with Peanuts
Kizaca is a popular vegetarian dish from Angola, featuring tender cassava leaves simmered in a rich, creamy sauce made from ground peanuts. It's a flavorful and nutritious side dish that highlights the use of local ingredients.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Cassava leaves(fresh or frozen, finely chopped)
- 150 g Peanuts(roasted and ground into a paste or flour)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 50 ml Red palm oil
- 200 ml Water or vegetable broth(or as needed)
- Salt(to taste)
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper(optional, finely chopped for heat)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
If using fresh cassava leaves, wash them thoroughly and remove tough stems. Finely chop the leaves.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
In a pot, heat the red palm oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Add the finely chopped cassava leaves to the pot. Stir well to coat them with the oil and aromatics.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 4
Add the ground peanut paste (or flour) and mix thoroughly with the cassava leaves. Gradually add the water or vegetable broth, stirring continuously to create a smooth, creamy sauce. If using, add the chopped scotch bonnet pepper.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and cook for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cassava leaves are tender and the sauce has thickened.
⏱️ 30-40 minutes - 6
Season with salt to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 7
Serve hot as a side dish, traditionally with funge or rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure cassava leaves are cooked thoroughly, as raw cassava leaves can be toxic.
- ✓For a smoother sauce, you can blend the peanut paste with a little water before adding it to the pot.
- ✓Adjust the amount of peanut paste to achieve your preferred level of creaminess and flavor.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Some variations include small amounts of chopped tomatoes or other vegetables.
- A pinch of ground ginger can be added for extra flavor.