Isombe Cassava Leaves Stew Burundian Dish Recipe

Experience the rich flavors of Burundi with this Isombe recipe! A hearty and flavorful cassava leaves stew, traditionally served with fluffy white rice and beans. This complete guide walks you through each step, transforming simple ingredients into a delicious Central African masterpiece. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a special occasion.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 120 mins
Calories 518.2 kcal
Protein 10g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Isombe Cassava Leaves Stew Burundian Dish

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Isombe Cassava Leaves Stew Burundian Dish

  • Cassava
  • Spinach
  • Eggplant
  • Cabbage
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • Green Onions
  • Cilantro
  • Garlic
  • Maggi Seasoning
  • Black Pepper
  • Garlic Powder
  • Seasoning Salt
  • 1 lb soup bones
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup palm oil

How to Make Isombe Cassava Leaves Stew Burundian Dish

  1. Chop 1 large onion, 2 cloves garlic, and 1 inch ginger. Roughly chop 1 bunch of cassava leaves.
  2. In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 lb soup bones, 2 tsp salt, 1 tsp ground cumin, and 1 tsp ground coriander. Simmer for 30 minutes.
  3. Add the chopped cassava leaves, onion, garlic, and ginger to the simmering broth. Bring back to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
  4. Stir in 1/2 cup palm oil. Continue to simmer until the oil is partially absorbed, about 10 minutes.
  5. Add 1 (14.5 ounce) can of diced tomatoes, and simmer for another 10 minutes, until slightly thickened.
  6. Stir in 1/2 cup peanut butter. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce is smooth and thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Serve hot over white rice and beans.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

2 g

Sugar

26g

Fat

75g

Carbs

19g