Kenyan Matoke with Tomato & Onion Sauce
Steamed plantain bundles layered with a savory tomato sauce—a beloved Kenyan comfort dish. Naturally vegan, hearty, and deeply satisfying.
- Total time
- 45 min
- Servings
- 4
- Calories
- 285
- Protein
- 2g

Ingredients
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Open the appInstructions
Step 1
Peel plantains by cutting off ends and slicing skin lengthwise, then prying away the peel.
Step 2
Cut peeled plantains into 2-inch rounds. Arrange on a cutting board in stacks.
Step 3
Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium. Add onion and cook until soft, ~5 minutes.
Step 4
Stir in garlic and cumin, cooking until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Step 5
Add diced tomatoes with juice and a pinch of salt. Simmer for 8 minutes.
Step 6
Arrange plantain rounds in the pot, nestling them into the sauce in layers.
Step 7
Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for 15–20 minutes until plantains are very soft.
Step 8
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 9
Serve hot, topped with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.
Tools you’ll need
- cutting board
- sharp knife
- heavy-bottomed pot with lid
- wooden spoon
- serving spoon
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