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.

🧂 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
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
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Add the cubed beef to the pot and brown it on all sides. This will take about 8-10 minutes.
- 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
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
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
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
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.