Likhwane LoMhlaba

Description

Likhwane LoMhlaba is a traditional Swazi dish known for its earthy and rich flavors. Traditionally enjoyed in Swaziland, this meal brings together the rich agricultural produce of the region with hearty, comforting textures. Likhwane, a soup-like dish, is often prepared using locally sourced beans and pumpkin leaves, creating a dish that not only nourishes but also pays homage to centuries of Swazi culinary traditions.

The word "Likhwane" refers to a thickened mixture, often indicative of soups or stews in Swazi cuisine. "LoMhlaba" underscores its grounding elements, emphasizing its origins from the earth, with "Mhlaba" meaning land or earth. This recipe celebrates the agrarian lifestyle of the Swazi people, turning simple, readily available ingredients into a delightful meal for the whole family.

Ingredients

• Beans - 2 cups
• Pumpkin Leaves - 3 cups, chopped
• Onion - 1, finely chopped
• Tomato - 2, diced
• Peanut Butter - 1/4 cup
• Salt - to taste
• Water - 4 cups
• Cooking Oil - 2 tablespoons

Preparation

1. Start by soaking the beans overnight. This will not only reduce their cooking time but also enhance their texture and flavor.
2. Prepare your vegetables by washing the pumpkin leaves thoroughly. Remove any tough stems and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
3. Dice the onion and tomato, setting them aside for the cooking process.

Cooking Process

1. In a large pot, heat the cooking oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and aromatic. This should take about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomato to the onions, stirring occasionally until the tomatoes start to break down into a sauce-like consistency.
4. Introduce the soaked beans into the pot, stirring to coat them with the onion and tomato mixture.
5. Pour in 4 cups of water and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and allow the beans to cook slowly for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until tender. A cooking timer can help manage this step.
7. As the beans become tender, add the chopped pumpkin leaves to the pot, stirring them into the mixture.
8. Incorporate the peanut butter slowly, stirring continuously to ensure it blends smoothly without clumping.
9. Season the dish with salt to your taste, allowing it to cook for another 15 minutes until all components are well integrated.
10. Ensure consistency by adjusting the liquid level; the dish should have a thick, stew-like texture.

Serving Suggestions

Likhwane LoMhlaba is best enjoyed hot. Serve it in a bowl alongside freshly baked bread or traditional Swazi mealie meal (porridge). The earthy flavors of the beans combined with the creamy peanut butter and fresh flavors of the pumpkin leaves make it a heartwarming dish.

How to Enjoy

This dish is perfect for communal eating and is often enjoyed with family and friends. Pair it with a light, refreshing salad or a glass of milk. You could also enjoy it with grilled chicken or roasted meat to add more dimensions to the meal.