Liboké de Viande

Liboké de Viande Recipe from Democratic Republic of Congo with Peanuts, Beef, Banana, and More

Region / culture: Democratic Republic of Congo | Preparation time: 45 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour and 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Liboké de Viande is a traditional African dish that features tender beef cooked with peanuts and spices, all wrapped in banana leaves for a unique and flavorful cooking method. This dish is a true taste of African cuisine, with rich flavors and a satisfying texture that will leave you wanting more.

History

Liboké de Viande has its origins in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where it is a popular dish enjoyed by many. The combination of beef, peanuts, and spices cooked in banana leaves is a traditional method of cooking that has been passed down through generations. This dish is often served at special occasions and celebrations, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the region.

Ingredients

Roasted peanuts, shelled, and skinned, slightly crushed (optional)
2-3 lb (1.36 kg) of beef, cut into large bite-sized pieces
1-2 banana leaves
salt
cayenne pepper or red pepper
juice of 2 lemons
1 chili pepper, chopped (optional)
1-2 onions, chopped (optional)

How to prepare

Use equal amounts of peanuts and meat. Place the peanuts in a saucepan, add enough water to partially cover them, and bring to a gentle boil, stirring often. Reduce the heat. Crush the peanuts with a potato masher. Simmer for fifteen minutes, then add the meat and continue to simmer until all the water has evaporated, which should take about thirty minutes.
Warm the banana leaves in a hot oven or on a grill for 30 seconds. Remove the center rib of each leaf by cutting across it with a knife and pulling it off. Cut the ends off each leaf to form a large rectangle.
Sprinkle salt and pepper directly onto the banana leaves. Place the meat and peanut mixture with onions and chili pepper on the banana leaves. Moisten the meat with lemon juice and water.
Fold the banana leaves to completely enclose the ingredients, creating a packet with 2-3 layers using the remaining leaves.
Cook the packet on an outdoor grill or in an oven, turning it every ten minutes. After an hour, remove from the grill and check if the meat is done. If not, close the packet and continue cooking.
Serve the cooked dish with boiled yams.

Variations

Substitute chicken or lamb for the beef for a different flavor profile.
Add vegetables such as bell peppers or tomatoes for added texture and color.
Use different spices such as cumin or coriander for a unique twist on the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to crush the peanuts slightly before cooking to release their flavor into the dish.

- Make sure to check the meat for doneness before serving, as cooking times may vary depending on the heat source.

- Adjust the amount of chili pepper to suit your spice preference.

- Serve with boiled yams for a complete and satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Liboké de Viande with boiled yams or rice for a complete meal. Add a side of fresh vegetables or a salad for added nutrition.

Cooking Techniques

The traditional method of cooking Liboké de Viande involves wrapping the ingredients in banana leaves and cooking them on a grill or in an oven. This method infuses the dish with a smoky flavor and helps to keep the meat tender and juicy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are allergic to peanuts, you can substitute almonds or cashews for a similar nutty flavor. You can also use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a different texture.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the meat and peanut mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This dish also freezes well, so you can make a large batch and freeze individual portions for later use.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Liboké de Viande on a large platter, unwrapping the banana leaves at the table for a dramatic presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Liboké de Viande with a light and refreshing salad, such as a cucumber and tomato salad, to balance out the rich flavors of the dish. A glass of chilled white wine or a fruity beer would also complement this dish nicely.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a microwave-safe container and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 350 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 12g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 18g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 32g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of iron, vitamin B12, and zinc.

Alergens

This recipe contains peanuts.

Summary

Liboké de Viande is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It is a satisfying meal that will keep you full and energized.

Summary

Liboké de Viande is a delicious and flavorful African dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. With its unique cooking method and rich combination of ingredients, this dish is a true taste of African cuisine that will transport you to the heart of the Congo. Enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying texture of Liboké de Viande for a memorable dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Liboké de Viande. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Marie in her quaint little village in the French countryside. Marie was an incredible cook, and I always looked forward to our visits because she would always whip up something delicious for us to enjoy.

On this particular day, as I walked into Marie's cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the most wonderful aroma. I followed my nose to the stove, where Marie was busy stirring a pot of simmering meat and vegetables. "What are you making, Marie?" I asked, my mouth watering at the sight and smell of the dish.

"It's a traditional Congolese dish called Liboké de Viande," Marie replied with a smile. "I learned how to make it from a dear friend of mine who hails from the Congo. It's a family recipe that has been passed down for generations."

As I watched Marie deftly add the final touches to the dish, I couldn't help but be intrigued by the combination of flavors and spices that went into making Liboké de Viande. The rich aroma of smoked paprika, garlic, and ginger filled the air, making my stomach growl in anticipation.

Marie noticed my interest and invited me to help her prepare the dish. I eagerly accepted, eager to learn the secrets behind this tantalizing recipe. Together, we chopped vegetables, marinated the meat, and carefully wrapped everything in banana leaves before placing it in the oven to cook.

As we waited for the Liboké de Viande to finish cooking, Marie regaled me with stories of her travels and the various recipes she had learned from different cultures around the world. I listened intently, soaking in every detail and marveling at the way food could bring people together and bridge cultural divides.

Finally, the moment of truth arrived as Marie pulled the Liboké de Viande out of the oven. The aroma that wafted through the kitchen was nothing short of heavenly, and my mouth watered in anticipation of the first bite.

We unwrapped the banana leaves to reveal a steaming, fragrant dish that was a feast for the senses. The meat was tender and flavorful, infused with the spices and herbs that we had lovingly added. The vegetables were cooked to perfection, adding a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

As I took my first bite of Liboké de Viande, I was transported to a world of exotic flavors and culinary delights. The combination of savory meat, aromatic spices, and tender vegetables danced on my taste buds, leaving me craving more.

I savored every bite of the dish, feeling grateful for the opportunity to learn this recipe from Marie. It was a true labor of love, and I could feel the passion and history behind each ingredient and cooking technique.

From that day on, Liboké de Viande became a staple in my own culinary repertoire. I would often prepare it for my family and friends, sharing the story of how I learned to make it from my dear friend Marie in the French countryside.

To this day, whenever I make Liboké de Viande, I am reminded of that warm summer day in Marie's kitchen, where I discovered a new recipe and forged a lifelong bond over our shared love of food and cooking. And every time I take a bite of the dish, I am transported back to that moment, surrounded by the sights, sounds, and smells of a true culinary adventure.