Cassava Leaf Stew
Saka Saka
A quintessential Sierra Leonean dish, Cassava Leaf Stew, also known as Saka Saka, is a rich and flavorful one-pot meal. It features tender cassava leaves simmered in a savory broth with palm oil, peanut butter, and often includes various meats or fish for added depth. This hearty stew is a staple in Sierra Leonean households and is typically served with steamed rice or fufu.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 lb Beef (stewing cut)(cut into bite-sized cubes)
- 3/4 cup Palm oil
- 2 medium Onions(chopped)
- 2 large Stock cubes (e.g., Maggi)
- 3 cups Water
- 2 medium Eggplants(peeled and chopped)
- 3 tablespoons Dried smoked fish flakes or crayfish powder
- 1 to taste Scotch bonnet pepper(or other chili)
- 5 tablespoons Peanut butter (smooth)
- 1 lb Pounded cassava leaves(fresh or frozen, thawed)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a pot, combine beef, 1 tablespoon of chopped onion, 1/4 of a stock cube, 1 tablespoon of oil, 1/3 cup of water, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well, bring to a boil, and simmer for about 25 minutes until the beef is cooked through.
- 2
While the beef is cooking, blend the eggplant, remaining onion, smoked fish (or crayfish powder), and 2/3 cup of water until pureed.
- 3
Transfer the puree to another pot. Add the remaining stock cubes and water, peanut butter, and palm oil. Mix well, bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 4
Stir in the pounded cassava leaves and the cooked beef along with its liquid. Bring back to a boil and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the cassava leaves are tender.
- 5
10 minutes before the stew is done, add the Scotch bonnet pepper (if using whole, pierce it to release flavor). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and cook until the beef is tender and the stew has thickened.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓If using frozen cassava leaves, ensure they are fully thawed and, if desired, re-blend for a smoother texture.
- ✓For a richer flavor, add dried shrimp or smoked turkey along with the beef.
- ✓Stir frequently as the stew thickens to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- ✓Adjust the amount of chili pepper to your preferred level of heat.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Vegetarian: Omit the meat and fish, and add mushrooms or smoked tofu.
- Protein: Use chicken, goat meat, or a combination of different meats and fish.
- Leafy Greens: While cassava leaves are traditional, other greens like spinach or krain krain can be used.