Recipe
Ugandan Green Banana Stew
Firm green cooking bananas are simmered with onion, tomato, garlic and warm spices until tender, making a comforting Ugandan vegetarian stew with a savoury, potato-like texture.
Ingredients
Method
20 mins prep35 mins cook55 mins total
Toss the peeled banana pieces with lemon juice to reduce browning.
Fry the onion and pepper in oil for 6 minutes. Add garlic, ginger, coriander and cumin and cook for 1 minute.
Stir in the tomatoes and stock. Add the bananas, cover and simmer for 25 minutes until tender but not falling apart.
Season, scatter with fresh coriander and serve hot.
Notes
Green plantains can replace cooking bananas; they may need 5–10 minutes longer.
About this recipe
Matoke is a comforting Ugandan stew of firm green cooking bananas simmered with onion, tomato and warm spices. The bananas soften to a savoury, potato-like texture while keeping their shape, making this a satisfying vegetarian main.
Use bananas that are completely green and firm rather than fruit that has started to yellow. Lemon helps prevent browning, and a final handful of coriander brightens the rich, gently spiced sauce.
Serve it as a generous bowl on its own, or alongside grilled meat when you want the stew to act as a hearty vegetable side.
