Ugandan Groundnut Sauce with Matoke - Manjeri Skincare

Ugandan Groundnut Sauce with Matoke

Benefits: Groundnuts (peanuts) provide vitamin E, zinc, and skin-healing fats, while matoke (green bananas) are rich in potassium and resistant starch that support hydration and gut health—two key drivers of glowing skin.

Skin Concern: Dehydrated or eczema-prone skin; barrier repair

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Serves: 2

Ingredients:

For the Groundnut Sauce:

  • ½ cup natural unsweetened peanut butter

  • 1 small onion, chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tomato, chopped

  • 1 cup warm water or vegetable broth

  • 1 tbsp coconut oil

  • Sea salt to taste

For the Mashed Matoke:

  • 4 green bananas (matoke), peeled and chopped

  • 1 tbsp oil or organic ghee

  • Pinch of sea salt

Instructions:

  • Cook the Matoke: Steam or boil chopped green bananas for 15–20 minutes until soft. Mash with oil or organic ghee and a pinch of salt until creamy. Set aside and keep warm.

  • Make the Sauce Base: In a saucepan, heat coconut oil. Sauté onions and garlic until soft. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until broken down.

  • Add Peanut Butter: Stir in peanut butter and gradually add warm water or broth to create a smooth sauce. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring frequently.

  • Finish: Season to taste with sea salt. Optional: add a pinch of chili powder or turmeric for extra skin-loving benefits.

  • Serve: Spoon mashed matoke into shallow bowls and top with a generous ladle of warm groundnut sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley or toasted sesame seeds if desired.

Shopping Tips:

  • Peanut Butter: Use 100% groundnuts—no sugar or additives.

  • Matoke: Green cooking bananas can often be found in African, Caribbean, or international markets.

Cooking Tips:

  • Creamier Mash: Add a splash of coconut milk while mashing for added hydration and glow.

  • Gut Boost: Serve with sautéed greens (like sukuma wiki or spinach) for fiber and skin-supportive nutrients.

This iconic dish is a comforting, glow-giving staple—perfect for replenishing moisture, calming inflammation, and supporting long-term skin resilience.

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