Fufu with Spinach Sauce
Kotu
A staple West African dish, Fufu is a dense, starchy side made from pounded cassava and plantains. It's traditionally served with a flavorful spinach sauce (Kotu), which is a rich blend of leafy greens, tomatoes, onions, and often includes fish or meat for added depth.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Cassava(peeled, cut into chunks)
- 2 medium Green plantains(peeled)
- as needed Water
- 500 g Spinach(fresh or frozen, chopped)
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 3 tbsp Palm oil
- 200 g Fish or chicken(optional, cooked and flaked or diced)
- 1 small Chili pepper(minced, optional)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Fufu: Boil the cassava and green plantains in water until very tender (about 30-40 minutes). Drain well.
- 2
In a food processor or using a mortar and pestle, mash the boiled cassava and plantains together until a smooth, elastic dough forms. Add a little water if needed to help with blending. Shape into balls.
- 3
Prepare the Spinach Sauce: In a pot, heat the palm oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- 4
Add the minced garlic, chopped tomatoes, and chili pepper (if using). Cook for about 5 minutes until tomatoes soften.
- 5
Add the chopped spinach to the pot. If using fish or chicken, add it now. Stir well to combine.
- 6
Add about 1 cup of water or broth, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 20-30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and flavors have melded.
- 7
To serve, place a ball of fufu in a bowl and ladle the spinach sauce over it.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the cassava is thoroughly cooked as it can be toxic when raw.
- ✓For a smoother fufu, you can use a food processor.
- ✓Adjust the chili pepper to your spice preference.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Use sweet potatoes or yams instead of cassava.
- Add other leafy greens like kale or collard greens.