RecipesTanzaniaNdizi Nyama na Nazi

Ndizi Nyama na Nazi

A hearty and flavorful stew combining tender pieces of beef with ripe plantains (ndizi) simmered in a rich, savory sauce enriched with coconut milk. This dish offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Prep Time25 minutes
Cook Time1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time1 hour 55 minutes
Servings4
DifficultyMedium
Ndizi Nyama na Nazi - Tanzania traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 500 g Beef(cubed)
  • 3 large Ripe plantains(peeled and cut into chunks)
  • 1 large Onion(chopped)
  • 3 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
  • 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
  • 2 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
  • 1 can (400ml) Coconut milk
  • 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp Curry powder
  • 0.5 tsp Turmeric powder
  • 0.5 tsp Cumin seeds
  • Salt(to taste)
  • Black pepper(freshly ground, to taste)
  • 1 cup Water or beef broth(as needed)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

  2. 2

    Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.

  3. 3

    Add the cubed beef to the pot and brown it on all sides. This will take about 8-10 minutes.

  4. 4

    Stir in the chopped tomatoes, curry powder, turmeric powder, and cumin seeds. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.

  5. 5

    Pour in the coconut milk and water or beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.

  6. 6

    Add the plantain chunks to the stew. Continue to simmer, covered, for another 20-30 minutes, or until the plantains are tender and have softened into the sauce.

  7. 7

    Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If the stew is too thick, add a little more water or broth.

    💡 Tip: The plantains will break down and thicken the sauce naturally.
  8. 8

    Serve hot, ideally with ugali or rice.

    💡 Tip: The riper the plantains, the sweeter and softer they will be in the stew.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Use ripe plantains for a natural sweetness that complements the savory beef.
  • Ensure the beef is tender before adding the plantains.
  • Adjust the amount of curry powder and spices to your liking.

🔄 Variations

  • Substitute goat meat or chicken for beef.
  • Add a diced bell pepper or a chopped chili for extra flavor and heat.

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