Ndizi Nyama (Green Banana and Beef Stew)
Ndizi Nyama, which translates to 'bananas and meat' in Swahili, is a hearty and flavorful Tanzanian stew. It features tender beef simmered with starchy green bananas in a rich, spiced coconut milk sauce, often with tomatoes and onions. This dish is a staple in Tanzanian cuisine, showcasing the use of unripe bananas which hold their shape during cooking.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 lb Beef(stewing cut, cut into bite-sized cubes)
- 4 medium Green bananas(peeled and cut into quarters or thick slices)
- 1 medium Onion(finely sliced)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 0.5 inch Ginger(fresh, peeled and minced)
- 1 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1 cup Coconut milk(full-fat)
- 2 cups Water or beef broth
- 3 tbsp Cooking oil
- 0.5 tsp Curry powder
- 0.5 tsp Cayenne pepper(optional, adjust to taste)
- 1.5 tsp Salt(to taste)
- 1 tsp Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a pot, combine beef, minced garlic, minced ginger, salt, and black pepper. Add 1 cup of water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.
- 2
While the beef is simmering, peel the green bananas and cut them into quarters or thick slices. If not using immediately, keep them submerged in water to prevent browning.
- 3
In a separate pan, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- 4
Add the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste to the onions. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and break down.
- 5
Add the curry powder and cayenne pepper (if using) to the tomato-onion mixture and stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 6
Drain the green bananas and add them to the pot with the tender beef. Add the remaining 1 cup of water or broth and the tomato-onion-spice mixture. Stir to combine.
- 7
Bring the stew back to a simmer, then reduce heat, cover, and cook for another 20-25 minutes, or until the bananas are tender but still hold their shape.
- 8
Pour in the coconut milk and stir gently. Simmer for another 10-15 minutes, uncovered, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Adjust salt to taste.
- 9
Serve hot, traditionally with ugali or rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use the greenest, starchiest bananas available for the best texture.
- ✓Do not overcook the bananas, as they can become mushy.
- ✓If you prefer a thicker stew, simmer uncovered for a bit longer.
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can use beef broth instead of water.
🔄 Variations
- Add diced carrots or sweet potatoes along with the bananas for extra vegetables.
- For a spicier dish, add more cayenne pepper or a fresh chili pepper.