Kenyan Matoke (Green Banana Stew)
Matoke is a flavorful and comforting stew made with green bananas (plantains) cooked in a rich tomato and onion base, often with added spices and sometimes meat or vegetables. It's a staple in many Kenyan households, offering a unique sweet and savory profile.
🧂 Ingredients
- 6-8 medium Green bananas (plantains)(peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 4 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 3 tbsp Cooking oil
- 2 cups Water or Broth(or as needed)
- 1 tbsp Curry powder
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- to taste Salt
- 1/4 cup Cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat the cooking oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 2
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the chopped tomatoes, curry powder, and turmeric powder. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to break down.
- 4
Add the peeled and cut green bananas to the pot. Stir to coat them with the tomato and spice mixture.
- 5
Pour in the water or broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the green bananas are tender and have broken down slightly, creating a thick stew. Stir occasionally and add more liquid if it becomes too dry.
- 6
Season with salt to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use firm, green bananas for the best texture. Overripe bananas will become mushy.
- ✓If you prefer a spicier dish, add a chopped chili pepper along with the garlic and ginger.
- ✓Matoke can be made with added vegetables like carrots or spinach, or with chunks of beef or chicken.
🔄 Variations
- Add coconut milk in the last 10 minutes of cooking for a creamy, richer stew.
- Incorporate cubed potatoes or sweet potatoes along with the green bananas.
- For a vegetarian option, add cubes of firm tofu or paneer.