
Photo from tootoboo.com
Mataba is a flavorful East African dish that combines spinach, coconut milk, and spices, offering a unique taste with a creamy texture. Popular in Comoros, this comforting dish can be enjoyed as a main meal with rice or as a delicious side. The rich coconut flavor with tender spinach makes it both nutritious and satisfying.
Ingredients
2 lbs (1 kg) fresh spinach, chopped
1 large onion, finely diced
2 tbsp (30 ml) vegetable oil or coconut oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp (10 g) fresh ginger, minced
1 can (400 ml) coconut milk
1 tsp (5 g) turmeric powder
Salt to taste
1 fresh chili, optional for spice
Instructions
Prepare the Spinach: Wash and chop the spinach, then set aside.
Cook Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until they turn golden brown, then add garlic and ginger, stirring for a minute.
Add Spinach and Spices: Add the chopped spinach to the pot along with turmeric and salt, stirring to combine. Cook until the spinach begins to wilt.
Pour in Coconut Milk: Add coconut milk to the pot, stirring everything together. Let it simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the spinach to fully cook and the flavors to meld.
Optional - Add Chili: For a bit of heat, add a chopped fresh chili or chili flakes at this stage. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Simmer and Thicken: Continue cooking until the coconut milk thickens slightly, coating the spinach in a creamy, flavorful sauce.
Serving
Serve Mataba hot over steamed rice, or enjoy it as a side dish with your favorite East African mains. Garnish with a bit of fresh chili or a squeeze of lime if desired.
Mataba is a comforting and nutritious East African dish perfect for coconut lovers and those who enjoy creamy, spiced flavors. Its simplicity and wholesome ingredients make it a fantastic dish for any occasion.