Cookbook:Matoke and Beef Stew

Matoke refers to a variety of East African plantain or banana, and it is a staple crop. This dish incorporates plantains into a stew. It can be made with or without meat depending on your preference.

Ingredients

 * 8–10 medium-size plantains
 * 1 lemon (optional), juiced
 * Vegetable oil for frying
 * 2–3 tomatoes, chopped
 * 1 onion, chopped
 * 1 green bell pepper, chopped
 * 1 chile pepper, chopped
 * 2–3 garlic cloves, crushed
 * Curry spices to taste
 * Beef stew meat (optional), cut in bite-size pieces
 * 1 cup beef stock (optional)
 * Salt
 * Red chile powder

Procedures

 * 1) Peel the plantains and cut into cubes. Toss with lemon juice and set aside.
 * 2) Heat the oil in a large pan. Add the tomatoes, onions, peppers, and garlic. Fry together.
 * 3) Stir in the curry spice to taste, then the meat and stock. Cook, stirring, until the meat is nearly done or the mixture is boiling.
 * 4) Stir in the plantains. Cover and simmer over low heat until until the plantains are tender and the meat is fully cooked.
 * 5) Season with salt and chili pepper to taste.
 * 6) Serve and enjoy your delicious meal.