Beans and Plantains Stew (Ibiharage n'Imineke)
A hearty and flavorful stew made with tender beans and sweet plantains, simmered in a rich tomato and onion base with aromatic spices. This dish is a staple in Burundian households, offering a comforting and nutritious meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 250 g Dried kidney beans(soaked overnight and drained)
- 2 medium Ripe plantains(peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1 large Onions(finely chopped)
- 400 g Tomatoes(crushed or diced)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 500 ml Water or vegetable broth
- to taste Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Coriander
- 1/4 tsp Chili flakes (optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Boil the soaked beans in fresh water until tender, about 30-40 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- 2
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, cumin, coriander, and chili flakes (if using). Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- 5
Add the cooked beans and the water or vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat, cover, and cook for 15 minutes.
- 6
Add the plantain pieces to the stew. Stir gently, cover, and continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until the plantains are tender but not mushy.
- 7
Season the stew with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir well and serve hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the plantains are ripe but still firm to prevent them from disintegrating in the stew.
- ✓Soaking the beans overnight significantly reduces cooking time and improves digestibility.
- ✓Adjust the amount of chili flakes to your preferred level of spice.
- ✓This stew can be made ahead of time and reheated; the flavors often meld and improve overnight.
🔄 Variations
- Add a handful of chopped spinach or other greens in the last 5 minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
- For a richer flavor, a small piece of smoked meat or fish can be added during the simmering process.
- Serve with a side of rice or ugali (cornmeal porridge).