Mchemsho wa Mboga
Tanzanian Mixed Vegetable Stew
A vibrant and nourishing mixed vegetable stew, Mchemsho is a traditional Tanzanian dish that can be made vegetarian or with added meat or fish. It's a one-pot wonder packed with a variety of vegetables and aromatic spices.
🧂 Ingredients
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 large Onions(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 3 medium Potatoes(peeled and cut into 1.5-inch chunks)
- 3 medium Carrots(peeled and sliced into 1-inch rounds)
- 1 cup Green beans(trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 2 medium Green bananas or plantains(peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks (optional))
- 1 cup Diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1 medium Green bell pepper(finely chopped (optional))
- 3 cups Vegetable stock
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Cumin powder
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 0.5 tsp Cayenne pepper(adjust to taste)
- 1.5 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(or to taste)
- 2 tbsp Lemon juice
- 0.25 cup Fresh cilantro or parsley(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions with a pinch of salt and cook for 8-10 minutes until soft and golden brown.
- 2
Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green bell pepper (if using). Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in turmeric, cumin, coriander, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 4
Add the diced tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring well. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- 5
Add the potatoes, carrots, green beans, and green bananas (if using) to the pot. Pour in the vegetable stock. Season with salt and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
- 6
Stir in the lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and serve hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a vegetarian version, ensure you use vegetable stock.
- ✓If green bananas are unavailable, you can omit them or use plantains.
- ✓Adjust the cayenne pepper for your desired level of spice.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other vegetables like cabbage, eggplant, or sweet potatoes.
- For a non-vegetarian version, add 1 lb of cubed beef or chicken and sear it before adding the onions.