Ibishyimbo na Ibitoke (Beans and Plantains)
A classic Rwandan combination, this dish features slow-cooked beans simmered with green plantains, onions, and spices. It's a hearty and flavorful meal that highlights the importance of legumes and plantains in Rwandan cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Dried beans(e.g., kidney beans or pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained)
- 3 medium Green plantains(peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks)
- 2 medium Onions(chopped)
- 3 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 3 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 4-6 cups Water or vegetable broth(enough to cover ingredients)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Optional: Coriander(ground)
- 1/2 teaspoon Optional: Paprika
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
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.
- 2
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for about 5 minutes, until they start to break down.
- 4
Add the soaked and drained beans to the pot. Pour in enough water or broth to cover the beans by about 2 inches. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beans are beginning to soften.
- 5
Add the green plantain chunks to the pot. Add optional coriander and paprika if using. Stir well.
- 6
Continue to simmer, covered, for another 30-45 minutes, or until the beans are fully tender and the plantains are cooked through and soft. Add more liquid if the stew becomes too dry.
- 7
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir and let it simmer for a final 5-10 minutes.
- 8
Serve hot. This dish is often enjoyed on its own or with a side of ugali.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the beans are well-soaked to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.
- ✓If green plantains are unavailable, ripe plantains can be used, but they will become very soft and sweet.
- ✓For a creamier texture, mash some of the cooked beans and plantains against the side of the pot.
🔄 Variations
- Add chunks of beef or goat meat along with the beans for a meatier stew.
- Incorporate other vegetables like sweet potatoes or carrots.