Creative African recipes featuring matoke
What's the story
Matoke, a type of green banana, is a key ingredient in East African cooking and a staple food for millions. Unlike sweet bananas, matoke is cooked and eaten like a potato, making it a perfect addition to plant-based meals. In this article, we share five creative ways to use matoke in your vegetarian meals to add flavor and nutrition.
Stew base
Transforming matoke into hearty stews
Matoke can serve as the star of hearty, plant-based stews. When simmered with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a medley of warming spices like turmeric and cumin, matoke soaks up the flavors while adding a thick, comforting texture. This way, you are not only taking advantage of matoke's starchiness but also infusing your meal with a variety of nutrients.
Curry twist
Crafting delicious matoke curries
Adding matoke to curries provides a deliciously unexpected spin on classic dishes. By substituting meat or other vegetables with matoke in coconut milk-based curries flavored with curry powder, ginger, and lemongrass, you'll craft a distinctive meal that shines with creaminess and layered taste. This method truly highlights matoke's ability to complement and enhance the flavors of robust spices.
Snack option
Baking savory matoke chips
If you're looking for a healthier option to traditional snacks, try baking thinly sliced matoke until crisp for a delicious twist on chips that are great for dipping or snacking on their own. Simply seasoned with salt or spiced up with chili powder and lime zest before baking at 180 degrees Celsius for 20 minutes, these crunchy treats offer a nutritious and satisfying alternative to regular chips.
Comfort food
Creating mashed matoke sides
Mashed matoke is a delicious side dish similar to mashed potatoes but with a distinct flavor. Simply boil peeled matoke until soft, then blend it with some olive oil or vegan butter and a pinch of salt for a creamy texture. This mash is perfect with vegetable gravies or as a base for vegan shepherd's pies.
Morning delight
Incorporating mako into breakfast dishes
Starting your day with mako can be both delicious and energizing. Sliced thinly and lightly fried until golden brown, mako can be served alongside avocado toast or mixed into vegetable scrambles for a satisfying breakfast. Packed with carbohydrates for sustained energy throughout the day, mako doesn't sacrifice taste or health benefits.