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Matoke (Ugandan Green Banana Stew)

East African · Main

A traditional East African staple, this hearty and savory stew features starchy green bananas simmered in a rich tomato and beef sauce with aromatic spices.

IntermediateHigh proteinGluten free
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Matoke (Ugandan Green Banana Stew) — recipe cover
50 minA little patience, a lot of flavor
Prep time20 min
Cook time30 min
Servings4 people
DifficultyIntermediate
Let's make something good

How to make it

5 steps. Take it one step at a time.

  1. Heat oil in a large pot

    Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add the beef cubes and brown on all sides.

    8 min
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking

    Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric, cumin, and salt. Cook until tomatoes soften and form a thick paste.

    5 min
  3. Peel the matoke and cut them

    Peel the matoke (green bananas) and cut them into chunks if they are large. Add them to the pot and toss with the meat and spices.

  4. Pour in the beef stock

    Pour in the beef stock until the matoke is mostly covered. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the bananas are tender and have turned a golden/yellowish color.

    25 min
  5. Once tender, you can lightly mash a few of the bananas

    Once tender, you can lightly mash a few of the bananas to thicken the gravy. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

A little kitchen wisdom

Traditionally, Matoke is steamed in banana leaves, but this stewed version is popular for its rich sauce and ease of preparation in modern kitchens.

What you'll need

Large potKnifeVegetable peeler
Keep the good going

For now. And for later.

Make it ahead

This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Store & enjoy

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

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An AI-created recipe from the EZdish collection. Ingredient quantities and techniques have not been independently kitchen-tested. Published on this website . Updated . First published in the EZdish collection .

Matoke (Ugandan Green Banana Stew)
Step 1 of 5

Heat oil in a large pot

Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add the beef cubes and brown on all sides.

8 min