Republic of the Congo • Africa • medium • 75 mins
Republic of the Congo Saka-Saka
Description
Saka-Saka is a traditional Congolese dish made from cassava leaves, which are rich in nutrients and flavor. This dish holds cultural significance as it is often prepared for family gatherings and celebrations, symbolizing unity and the importance of sharing meals.
Ingredients
- 500g cassava leaves (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup ground peanuts
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons palm oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground pepper
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed
Instructions
- If using fresh cassava leaves, wash them thoroughly and boil in salted water for about 30 minutes until tender. Drain and chop finely. If using frozen leaves, thaw and set aside.
- In a large pot, heat the palm oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften.
- Stir in the ground peanuts and mix well.
- Add the chopped cassava leaves to the pot, along with ground pepper and salt. Mix everything together.
- Pour in enough water to cover the mixture and simmer on low heat for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve hot with rice or fufu.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 350 per serving
Servings: 4
Dietary: gluten-free, vegan
⚠️ Allergens: nuts
Health Benefits
Saka-Saka is rich in essential nutrients such as vitamins A and C from cassava leaves, which support immune function and skin health. The ground peanuts provide healthy fats and protein, contributing to heart health and satiety. Additionally, the dish is gluten-free and vegan, making it an excellent option for various dietary preferences. The use of palm oil adds a source of antioxidants, promoting overall wellness.
Cultural Significance
Saka-Saka is a staple in Congolese cuisine, often enjoyed during family gatherings and special occasions. It reflects the agricultural practices of the region, where cassava is a primary crop, and highlights the importance of communal eating in Congolese culture.
Explore More Recipes
🌍 More Republic of the Congo Recipes – Discover authentic dishes from Republic of the Congo
🗺️ More Africa Cuisine – Explore recipes from across Africa
🥗 More gluten-free Recipes – Browse our gluten-free collection
👨🍳 Similar Difficulty Recipes – Find more medium recipes
🔍 Browse All Recipes – Search our complete collection of 1,000+ African and Caribbean recipes