Isombe
Isombe is a traditional Rwandan dish made from finely mashed cassava leaves, often cooked with ingredients like onions, garlic, bell peppers, tomatoes, and peanut butter. It's a nutritious and flavorful green stew that can be served as a main dish or a side, typically accompanied by rice, ugali, or plantains.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Cassava leaves(fresh or frozen, washed and finely chopped or pounded)
- 1 package Spinach(washed and chopped)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 medium Bell pepper(chopped)
- 1 medium Tomato(diced)
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons Peanut butter(or ground peanuts)
- 1 cup Chicken or vegetable broth(or water)
- Salt(to taste)
- Black pepper(to taste)
- 2 tablespoons Palm oil(optional, for traditional flavor)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
If using fresh cassava leaves, wash them thoroughly and pound or finely chop them. If using frozen, thaw and chop.
💡 Tip: Ensure cassava leaves are properly prepared to remove any potential toxins. - 2
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and chopped bell pepper, and cook for another 2 minutes.
- 3
Stir in the diced tomato and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- 4
Add the chopped cassava leaves and spinach to the pot. Pour in the broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 45-60 minutes, or until the cassava leaves are tender.
- 5
Stir in the peanut butter (or ground peanuts) and optional palm oil. Mix well until a smooth paste forms.
💡 Tip: Stir continuously to prevent sticking and burning. - 6
Continue to simmer uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the stew to thicken.
- 7
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot.
💡 Tip: Isombe is traditionally served with rice, ugali, or boiled plantains.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓If cassava leaves are unavailable, spinach or collard greens can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will differ.
- ✓Ensure thorough washing of cassava leaves.
- ✓Do not rush the initial boiling of cassava leaves, as this is crucial for removing any unpleasant taste.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add cooked meat (beef, chicken, or fish) for a heartier dish.
- Incorporate other vegetables like eggplant or leeks.
- For a richer flavor, some recipes use beef bone broth.