Matoke

Ingredients

• 10 unripe East African highland bananas (matoke), or green plantains
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup water, plus extra for steaming
• Salt to taste
• Banana leaves, for lining (optional)

Before you cook

• Boil the unpeeled bananas for 5 minutes to loosen the sap, then drain.
• Peel the bananas with oiled hands or gloves.
• Wrap the peeled bananas loosely in banana leaves, if using.
• Chop the tomato and onion.

Steps

1. Set a steaming rack or upturned plate in the bottom of a large pot.
2. Pour in water until it just reaches below the level of the rack.
3. Arrange the wrapped or unwrapped bananas on the rack.
4. Cover tightly and steam over medium heat for 45 minutes, checking the water level occasionally so it never rises above the bananas.
5. Transfer the steamed bananas to a large bowl.
6. Mash the bananas with a wooden pestle or potato masher until smooth.
7. Heat the oil in a separate pan over medium heat.
8. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
9. Add the tomato and cook until it breaks down, about 5 minutes.
10. Stir the tomato and onion mixture into the mashed banana.
11. Season with salt and serve hot.