Ndizi na Nyama (Kenyan Beef and Plantain Stew)
A hearty and flavorful stew combining tender chunks of beef with ripe plantains, simmered in a rich tomato and onion-based sauce with aromatic spices. This dish offers a delightful balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors, showcasing a popular combination in Kenyan cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Beef stew meat(cut into 1.5-inch cubes)
- 3 large Ripe plantains(peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 2 medium Large onions(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tbsp Ginger(grated fresh)
- 400 g Tomatoes(crushed or diced)
- 500 ml Beef broth
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Curry powder
- 1 tsp Cumin powder
- 0.5 tsp Turmeric powder
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 0.25 cup Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
💡 Tip: Drying the beef helps it brown better. - 2
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Remove browned beef and set aside.
⏱️ 8-10 minutes per batch - 3
Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onions to the pot and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 4
Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
⏱️ 1 minute - 5
Stir in the tomato paste, curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 6
Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.
⏱️ 1 hour - 7
Add the plantain chunks to the stew. Continue to simmer, covered, for another 20-30 minutes, or until the plantains are tender but not mushy.
⏱️ 30 minutes - 8
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If the stew is too thin, you can simmer it uncovered for a few minutes to thicken.
💡 Tip: The plantains will release some starch, which helps to thicken the stew. - 9
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
💡 Tip: This stew is excellent served with rice, ugali, or chapati.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use ripe plantains for a sweeter flavor and softer texture.
- ✓Adjust the amount of spices to your preference.
- ✓For a deeper flavor, you can marinate the beef overnight with some of the spices.
🔄 Variations
- Add a chopped bell pepper along with the onions for extra color and flavor.
- Include a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
- Substitute lamb or goat meat for beef.