Ugandan Nthocha (Banana Stew)
A hearty and flavorful stew made with unripe bananas (plantains), often cooked with meat or vegetables, and seasoned with local spices. It's a staple in many Ugandan households, offering a unique blend of savory and slightly starchy notes.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 kg Unripe green bananas (plantains)(peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks)
- 500 g Beef or goat meat(cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 medium Onions(chopped)
- 3 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 3 tbsp Cooking oil
- 500 ml Water or beef broth
- to taste Salt
- 1 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 1 tsp Curry powder(optional)
- a handful Coriander leaves(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 2
Add the beef or goat meat to the pot and brown it on all sides. This will take about 8-10 minutes.
- 3
Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Add the chopped tomatoes, curry powder (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to break down.
- 5
Add the peeled and chunked unripe bananas to the pot. Pour in the water or beef broth, ensuring the bananas are mostly submerged. Bring to a boil.
- 6
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the bananas are tender and the meat is cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- 7
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. The stew should have a thick, rich consistency.
- 8
Serve hot, garnished with fresh coriander leaves. Nthocha is often enjoyed with ugali or rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure you use truly unripe green bananas; ripe ones will become mushy and too sweet.
- ✓If the stew becomes too thick, add a little more water or broth.
- ✓For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more vegetables like sweet potatoes or pumpkin.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or spinach in the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Incorporate a tablespoon of tomato paste for a deeper tomato flavor.
- Spicy lovers can add a chopped chili pepper along with the tomatoes.