Malawi Beans with Greens
Mtedza wa Nyemba ndi Masamba
A simple yet nutritious dish made with slow-cooked beans and leafy greens, often seasoned with tomatoes and onions. It's a staple vegetarian option in Malawian households.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Dried Beans(e.g., kidney beans, black-eyed peas, or a mix; soaked overnight)
- 500 g Leafy Greens(e.g., spinach, collard greens, pumpkin leaves; chopped)
- 1 large Onions(chopped)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 tbsp Cooking Oil
- as needed Water
- to taste Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper(freshly ground)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Drain and rinse the soaked beans. Place them in a pot and cover with fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1.5 hours, or until beans are tender but not mushy. Drain, reserving some of the cooking liquid.
- 2
While beans are cooking, heat cooking oil in a separate large pan or pot over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 3
Add minced garlic and chopped tomatoes to the pan. Cook until tomatoes soften and break down, about 5-7 minutes.
- 4
Add the cooked beans to the tomato and onion mixture. Stir to combine.
- 5
Add the chopped leafy greens to the pot. Stir them in, and add a little of the reserved bean cooking liquid or fresh water if needed to create some moisture.
- 6
Season with salt and black pepper. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes, or until the greens are tender and wilted, and the flavors have melded together.
- 7
Stir occasionally, adding more liquid if the mixture becomes too dry. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Soaking beans overnight significantly reduces cooking time and improves digestibility.
- ✓Use a variety of beans for a more complex flavor and texture.
- ✓Don't overcook the greens; they should be tender but still retain some vibrant color.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of chili flakes for a touch of heat.
- Incorporate other vegetables like diced carrots or bell peppers along with the tomatoes.