Ndizi na Nyama

Ndizi na Nyama Recipe from Uganda with Beef, Plantains, and Coconut Milk

Region / culture: Uganda | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Ndizi na Nyama is a traditional East African dish that combines tender beef with ripe plantains in a flavorful coconut milk sauce. This dish is a perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

History

Ndizi na Nyama has its origins in the coastal regions of East Africa, where coconut milk is a staple ingredient in many dishes. The combination of beef and plantains in a rich coconut sauce is a popular and beloved dish in countries like Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.

Ingredients

1 cup water
1 lb (454 g) beef, cut into bite-sized cubes (thin cut)
1.5 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
0.5 tsp curry powder
0.5 tsp red pepper
3 tbsp cooking oil
1 onion, thinly sliced
2 tomatoes, chopped
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup coconut milk
1 tbsp oregano
4 plantains, peeled and sliced

How to prepare

In a pot or pan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil.
Add the meat, salt, black pepper, curry powder, and red pepper. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 20 minutes.
While the meat is simmering, heat oil in a separate pan.
Fry the onions in the oil until they turn golden brown.
Add the tomatoes and tomato paste and cook for 10 minutes or until the tomatoes are soft. Reduce the heat.
Add coconut milk and oregano. Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
Add sliced plantains to the meat.
Cook for 10 minutes or until the meat is done and the plantains are tender.
Combine the onion-tomato-coconut mixture with the meat and plantains. Stir for 10 minutes.
Adjust the seasoning to taste and plate the meal.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the beef with chickpeas or tofu.
Add some chopped bell peppers or green beans for extra color and flavor.
Experiment with different spices like cumin, coriander, or paprika to customize the dish to your taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to simmer the meat with the spices for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Be careful not to overcook the plantains, as they can become mushy. Cook them until they are tender but still hold their shape.

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more salt, pepper, or spices as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Ndizi na Nyama is traditionally served with rice or ugali, a maize-based staple in East Africa. You can also enjoy it with chapati or crusty bread.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the meat with the spices helps to tenderize the beef and infuse it with flavor.

- Frying the onions until golden brown adds a rich caramelized flavor to the dish.

- Adding the coconut milk towards the end of cooking ensures that it doesn't curdle and retains its creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find plantains, you can use ripe bananas as a substitute.

- You can use chicken or lamb instead of beef for a different flavor profile.

- Substitute coconut milk with heavy cream or yogurt for a lighter version of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

Ndizi na Nyama can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Ndizi na Nyama with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color. Serve it in a shallow bowl or on a platter with a side of rice or ugali.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or a side of steamed vegetables. A glass of chilled coconut water or a fruity white wine complements the flavors of Ndizi na Nyama.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Ndizi na Nyama in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Ndizi na Nyama contains around 400 calories, making it a satisfying and hearty meal.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Ndizi na Nyama contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates, mainly from the plantains and tomatoes in the dish.

Fats

The coconut milk in Ndizi na Nyama contributes to the dish's fat content, with each serving containing around 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

The beef in Ndizi na Nyama provides a good source of protein, with each serving containing approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C from the tomatoes and onions, as well as iron and zinc from the beef.

Alergens

This recipe contains coconut milk, which may be an allergen for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before preparing this dish.

Summary

Ndizi na Nyama is a well-balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Ndizi na Nyama is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together the flavors of East Africa in a hearty and satisfying meal. With a perfect balance of savory and sweet, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting a friend in Tanzania. She invited me over for lunch, and as soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was enveloped in the mouth-watering aroma of spices and simmering meat.

My friend, Fatima, was busy at the stove, stirring a pot of Ndizi na Nyama - a traditional Tanzanian dish made with plantains and beef. I watched in awe as she expertly seasoned the meat with a blend of fragrant spices, including cinnamon, cumin, and coriander. The plantains were ripe and sweet, adding a unique flavor and texture to the dish.

As Fatima cooked, she shared with me the story of how she learned to make Ndizi na Nyama. She explained that the recipe had been passed down through generations of her family, with each cook adding their own twist to the dish. Fatima had learned to make it from her grandmother, who had learned it from her mother before her.

I was captivated by the history and tradition behind the dish, and I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself. Fatima graciously agreed to teach me, and over the course of the afternoon, she patiently guided me through each step of the recipe.

First, we browned the beef in a hot skillet, allowing the spices to infuse the meat with their rich flavors. Then, we added onions, garlic, and tomatoes, creating a fragrant base for the dish. As the meat simmered, we peeled and sliced the plantains, adding them to the pot to cook until tender.

Finally, we sprinkled the dish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice, adding a bright and zesty finish to the rich and hearty flavors of the Ndizi na Nyama. As I took my first bite, I was transported back to Fatima's kitchen, surrounded by the sights, sounds, and smells of Tanzania.

Since that day, Ndizi na Nyama has become a staple in my own kitchen. I have made it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and quiet evenings at home. Each time I prepare it, I am reminded of the special connection I share with Fatima and the rich culinary heritage of Tanzania.

I have since shared the recipe with friends and loved ones, passing on not only the ingredients and techniques, but also the stories and traditions that make Ndizi na Nyama so special. It is a dish that brings people together, creating memories and connections that will last a lifetime.

As I sit here now, stirring a pot of Ndizi na Nyama on my own stove, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and people that have brought this recipe into my life. It is more than just a dish - it is a celebration of culture, history, and love. And for that, I am forever thankful.