Mutsindish Nyama na Ibitoke
A hearty and flavorful Rwandan stew featuring tender chunks of beef or goat simmered with ripe plantains and a rich tomato-based sauce. This dish balances savory meat with the natural sweetness of plantains, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Beef or Goat(cut into 1.5-inch cubes)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable Oil
- 2 large Onions(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 4 large Tomatoes(chopped)
- 2 tbsp Tomato Paste
- 4 Ripe Plantains(peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks)
- 4 cups Water or Beef Broth
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
- 1 Chili Pepper (optional)(finely chopped)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the meat on all sides, working in batches if necessary. Remove the meat and set aside.
- 2
Add the chopped onions to the pot and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Add the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to break down, about 5 minutes.
- 5
Return the browned meat to the pot. Add the water or beef broth, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer.
- 6
After 1 hour of simmering, add the plantain chunks and the optional chili pepper. Stir gently to combine. Cover and continue to simmer until the meat is tender and the plantains are cooked through and soft, about another 30 minutes.
- 7
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using ripe plantains will add a natural sweetness to the stew.
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can use beef broth instead of water.
- ✓Adjust the amount of chili pepper to your spice preference.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots along with the plantains.
- For a thicker sauce, you can mash some of the plantains against the side of the pot towards the end of cooking.