Ndizi na Nyama (Plantain and Beef Stew)
A hearty and flavorful stew made with tender chunks of beef and starchy green plantains, simmered in a rich, spiced tomato-based broth. This dish showcases the common Tanzanian use of plantains in savory preparations.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Beef chuck roast(cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 2 medium Onions(chopped)
- 3 large cloves Garlic(chopped)
- 1 tbsp Ginger(chopped fresh)
- 1 medium Jalapeño pepper(seeded and chopped (optional, for less heat))
- 1 tbsp Tomato paste
- 3 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 1 tsp Curry powder
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 3-4 cups Beef broth
- 2-3 tsp Salt(to taste)
- 1-2 large Green plantains(peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks)
- 2 large Carrots(cut into chunks)
- 2 large Potatoes(cut into chunks)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Brown the beef cubes in a large frying pan with 1 tbsp of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Do this in batches to avoid crowding the pan. Remove beef and set aside in a large pot or Dutch oven.
- 2
Add the remaining 1 tbsp of oil to the same pan. Add chopped onions and cook over low heat until softened and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic, ginger, and jalapeño (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute until it caramelizes slightly. Add the chopped tomatoes, curry powder, paprika, and black pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes break down and form a thick sauce.
- 4
Scrape the tomato mixture into the pot with the beef. Add 3 cups of beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze. Bring to a simmer, then add the carrots. Cover and simmer gently for 30 minutes.
- 5
Add the potatoes and plantain chunks to the pot. Add the remaining 1 cup of beef broth if needed. Season with salt. Cover and simmer for another 1 hour, or until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Stir occasionally.
- 6
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the plantains are very green and starchy for the best texture.
- ✓If plantains are not available, you can substitute with more potatoes or yams.
- ✓Adjust the amount of jalapeño or chili powder to your spice preference.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like bell peppers or sweet potatoes.
- For a richer flavor, use coconut milk in addition to or instead of some of the beef broth.