kizaka, is a traditional Angolan dish that is one of the most popular vegetarian dishes in the country.
Made with boiled cassava leaves mixed with ground peanut, it is regarded as the national dish of the country. For centuries, Angola was a Portuguese colony, and kizaka, like most Angolan dishes, is a combination of European influences and authentic African ingredients.
Cassava leaves which is the main ingredient, was brought to Angola from Brazi, where it is regarded as an indigenous ingredient. In Angola, the most popular variety is kizaka com peixe, a dish made with fish, onions, and tomatoes, while rice is traditionally served on the side. In the recipe below is an easy way of making kizaka;
Ingredients
- 1 lb of Cassava leaves (or spinach) chopped
- 1 tablespoon of Vegetable oil
- 1 chopped Onion
- 1 cup of Peanut powder
- 3 cloves of Garlic
- 1 Ginger
- 3 chopped Tomatoes
- Salt and pepper
Direction
1. Put the greens in boiling water and broth until tender in a big pot. (If using spinach, omit this step).
2. Sauté the onions until clear in a frying pan, add garlic and ginger until soft and aromatic.
3. Add tomatoes and cook till it is tender
4. Put in your peanut powder/butter and continue cooking for 5 minutes.
5. Add the greens to the cooked sauce (or stir in the chopped spinach and broth) and mix with salt and pepper.
