Mazondo (Cow Heels Stew)
Mazondo, a traditional Zimbabwean delicacy, features slow-cooked cow heels that become incredibly tender, swimming in a rich, savory gravy infused with tomatoes, onions, and aromatic spices. This hearty dish is a testament to the resourcefulness of Zimbabwean cuisine, utilizing every part of the animal for a deeply satisfying meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 kg Cow heels (Mazondo)(cleaned and chopped into pieces)
- 2 tbsp Cooking oil
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 3 medium Tomatoes(chopped or grated)
- 1 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1 tsp Curry powder
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes(or to taste)
- 4 cups Beef stock(or water)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Thoroughly clean the cow heels, removing any hair or debris. Chop them into manageable pieces. If they are not already pre-chopped, you may need an axe or a very sturdy cleaver.
- 2
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down.
- 5
Add the curry powder, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine with the tomato mixture.
- 6
Add the cleaned cow heels to the pot and stir to coat them with the spice and tomato mixture.
- 7
Pour in the beef stock (or water), ensuring the cow heels are mostly submerged. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- 8
Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover tightly, and let it simmer for 3 to 4 hours, or until the cow heels are extremely tender and the meat is easily separating from the bone. Stir occasionally and add more liquid if it becomes too dry.
- 9
Once tender, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. The gravy should be rich and slightly thickened from the collagen in the cow heels.
- 10
Serve hot, traditionally with sadza (a stiff maize meal porridge) or rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the cow heels are thoroughly cleaned before cooking, as this is crucial for taste and texture.
- ✓Slow and low cooking is key to achieving tender cow heels.
- ✓Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
- ✓If the gravy is too thin, you can simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes of cooking to reduce it.
🔄 Variations
- Add other root vegetables like carrots or potatoes during the last hour of cooking.
- For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes or add a fresh chili pepper.
- Some recipes suggest adding a bay leaf for extra aroma.