Mogata ya Kgomo (Beef and Melon Stew)
A hearty and uniquely flavored stew where tender beef is slow-cooked with the subtle sweetness of melon, creating a comforting and savory dish.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Beef chuck(cut into 2-inch cubes)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 2 large Onions(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 400 g Tomatoes(canned, diced)
- 500 ml Beef broth
- 2 tsp Curry powder
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 500 g Honeydew melon(peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1/4 cup Fresh coriander(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper.
- 2
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides in batches, then set aside.
- 3
Add the chopped onions to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 4
Stir in the minced garlic and curry powder, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 5
Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2 hours, or until the beef is very tender.
- 6
Add the cubed honeydew melon to the pot. Stir gently, cover, and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the melon is tender but not mushy.
- 7
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh coriander.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the melon is not overly ripe, as it can become too soft during cooking.
- ✓This stew pairs well with pap (maize porridge) or rice.
- ✓For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes with the curry powder.
🔄 Variations
- Other types of melons like cantaloupe can be used, but honeydew offers a more subtle sweetness.
- A splash of white wine can be added with the beef broth for added depth of flavor.