Matoke With Beans – Uganda

Matoke With Beans is a popular dish in East African cuisine, particularly in Uganda. It combines two staple ingredients: matoke—a type of banana—and beans, typically kidney beans or black-eyed peas. The dish is hearty, nutritious, and often enjoyed as a main course. 

Start to finish: 45 minutes 

Servings: 4 

Ingredients 

• 2 tablespoons oil 
• 1 medium onion, chopped  
• 2 garlic cloves, minced 
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated 
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin 
• 4 green plantains or bananas, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces 
• 15-ounce can diced tomatoes 
• 15-ounce can kidney beans, drained 
• 1/2 cup vegetable stock  
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes 
• Salt to taste 
• 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped, for garnish 

In a pot over medium heat, heat the oil and sauté the onion until it is translucent and soft, about 2 minutes. Add garlic, ginger and cumin. Stir for a minute or two until spices are fragrant. Add the bananas, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, vegetable stock and chili flakes. Salt to taste.  

Cover the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the bananas are tender.  

Garnish with cilantro and serve immediately.