Mtori

Mtori is a comforting East African stew rooted in the Kilimanjaro region of Tanzania, traditionally prepared with mashed green plantains and meat. In many homes it is a breakfast or healing food, served warm and smooth. This version highlights the gentle sweetness and body of green plantains and the savory depth of beef simmered with aromatic onion, garlic, and ginger, then mashed into a silky, nourishing bowl.

Ingredients

• 6 medium green plantains
• 500 g beef, cut into small cubes
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 6 cups water
• 1½ teaspoons salt, plus more to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 pods cardamom, lightly crushed (optional)

Preparation

1. Peel the green plantains: slice off the tips, score the skin lengthwise, and lift off the tough peel. Cut the green plantains into thick chunks and keep them in a bowl of water to prevent browning.
2. Pat the beef dry so it browns well. Prepare the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
3. Measure the salt, black pepper, and optional cardamom.

Cooking

1. Heat the oil in a heavy pot over medium heat until shimmering, then add the beef and brown, stirring occasionally, for 6–8 minutes.
2. Add the onion with a pinch of salt and cook until translucent, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the water, add the black pepper and cardamom (if using), and bring to a gentle boil. Drain the green plantains and add them to the pot. Reduce the heat and simmer until the beef is tender and the green plantains are very soft, about 45–60 minutes.
4. Use a masher to break down the softened green plantains directly in the pot until the broth thickens into a creamy soup. For an extra-smooth texture, blend a portion carefully and return it to the pot. Season with more salt and a pinch of black pepper to taste.
5. If the soup is too thick, stir in a splash of hot water; if it is too thin, continue simmering for another 5–10 minutes to thicken.

Serving and enjoying

Ladle mtori into warm bowls. Enjoy it on its own or alongside chapati or plain rice. Let the mellow sweetness of the green plantains and the savory notes from the beef, onion, garlic, and ginger shine; a final sprinkle of black pepper can add gentle warmth right before serving.

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stovetop, loosening with a splash of hot water if needed, and adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt before serving.