Ugandan Cassava and Bean Stew (Katogo wa Nyama)
A hearty and flavorful stew combining tender pieces of cassava with protein-rich beans, simmered in a rich tomato and onion base. This dish is a staple in Ugandan cuisine, offering a nutritious and satisfying meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Dried beans(e.g., kidney beans, black beans; soaked overnight)
- 500 g Cassava(peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 3 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 3 tbsp Cooking oil
- 6 cups Water or vegetable broth(or as needed)
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper(or to taste)
- 1 tsp Curry powder(optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Drain and rinse the soaked beans. In a large pot, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
⏱️ 7 minutes💡 Tip: Ensure the onions are cooked until soft to release their sweetness. - 2
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
⏱️ 1 minute💡 Tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic. - 3
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down into a thick sauce, about 8-10 minutes. If using curry powder, add it now and stir for 30 seconds.
⏱️ 10 minutes💡 Tip: Cooking down the tomatoes creates a rich base for the stew. - 4
Add the drained beans, cubed cassava, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
- 5
Pour in enough water or broth to cover the beans and cassava. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beans and cassava are tender.
⏱️ 1 hour 30 minutes💡 Tip: Stir occasionally and add more liquid if the stew becomes too dry. - 6
Once tender, check the seasoning and adjust salt and pepper as needed. The stew should be thick and hearty.
💡 Tip: If the stew is too thin, simmer uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes to reduce the liquid. - 7
Serve hot, on its own or with a side of rice, posho, or chapati.
💡 Tip: This stew often tastes even better the next day.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Soaking beans overnight significantly reduces cooking time and improves digestibility.
- ✓Cassava can be substituted with sweet potatoes or yams if unavailable.
- ✓For a richer flavor, a small piece of smoked fish can be added during the simmering process.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or leafy greens (e.g., spinach) during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- For a spicier version, add chopped chili peppers along with the tomatoes.