Matoke
Ugandan Steamed Green Bananas with Beef Stew
A beloved Ugandan staple, Matoke features green bananas (plantains) steamed until tender in their own leaves, then mashed into a soft, porridge-like consistency. It's traditionally served with a rich, savory beef and groundnut stew. This dish is hearty, comforting, and a true taste of East African cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 8 Green bananas (matoke)(Must be firm and completely green, not yellowing or ripe.)
- 6-8 large Banana leaves(Fresh or frozen. If frozen, thaw completely. Wipe clean with a damp cloth.)
- 500 g Beef(Stewing beef, cut into bite-sized pieces (e.g., chuck or brisket).)
- 3 Tomatoes(Medium-sized, ripe, finely chopped or pureed.)
- 1 Onion(Large, finely chopped.)
- 3 tbsp Groundnut paste (peanut butter)(Smooth or crunchy, unsweetened is preferred.)
- 2 tbsp Cooking oil(Vegetable or other neutral oil.)
- 2 cups Water(Or beef broth for richer flavor.)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the banana leaves: If using fresh leaves, gently warm them over a low flame or on a hot stovetop for a few seconds per side to make them pliable and prevent tearing. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and soft. Wipe them clean with a damp cloth.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Prepare the matoke: Carefully peel the green bananas. Trim off any tough ends. Slice each banana lengthwise into 2-3 pieces.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 3
Assemble the matoke parcels: Lay two banana leaves slightly overlapping to form a large surface. Place the banana pieces in the center. Fold the leaves over the bananas to create a sealed parcel. Repeat to make 2-3 parcels, depending on the size of your leaves and bananas.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Steam the matoke: Place the banana leaf parcels in a large pot or steamer basket. Add about 1 inch of water to the bottom of the pot (ensure the water level is below the parcels). Cover tightly and steam over medium-high heat for approximately 45-55 minutes, or until the bananas are very soft and easily mashable. The steam should be consistent.
⏱️ 55 minutes - 5
Prepare the beef stew while the matoke steams: Heat the cooking oil in a separate pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 6
Add the beef pieces to the pot. Brown the beef on all sides, stirring occasionally, until no pink remains. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 7
Stir in the chopped tomatoes (or puree). Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring, until the tomatoes have broken down slightly and the mixture is fragrant.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 8
Pour in the water or beef broth. Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook gently for at least 30-40 minutes, or until the beef is tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
⏱️ 40 minutes - 9
Incorporate the groundnut paste: Once the beef is tender, stir the groundnut paste into the stew until it's fully incorporated and the sauce has thickened slightly. Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 10
Mash the matoke: Carefully open the steamed banana parcels. The bananas should be very soft. Using a fork or a masher, mash the bananas directly within the leaves until they form a smooth, sticky paste. If the mixture is too dry, you can add a tablespoon or two of the stew liquid.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 11
Serve: Spoon the mashed matoke onto serving plates. Ladle the hot beef and groundnut stew alongside or over the matoke. Serve immediately.
⏱️ 2 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure your bananas are truly green; ripe plantains will not yield the correct texture.
- ✓Warming the banana leaves makes them easier to work with and less likely to split.
- ✓For a smoother matoke, mash thoroughly. For a slightly chunkier texture, mash less.
- ✓The stew can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.
- ✓If you don't have banana leaves, you can steam the matoke in a regular steamer basket lined with parchment paper, though the traditional flavor might be slightly altered.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Substitute fish stew for the beef stew for a lighter option.
- Add mixed vegetables like carrots, peas, or spinach to the beef stew for added nutrition.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the beef and use vegetable broth. Consider adding mushrooms or firm tofu to the stew.