Tanzania / Soup
Supu Ya Ndizi
Supu Ya Ndizi is a traditional East African soup made with green cooking bananas, vegetables, and spices. It is especially popular in Tanzania and among communities along the East African coast. The soup is valued for its rich flavor, nourishing qualities, and versatility. Depending on local preferences, it may be prepared with meat, fish, or as a vegetarian dish. It is commonly served as a main meal or as an accompaniment to bread and other side dishes.
Ingredients
- green cooking banana, peeled and sliced6
- beef or chicken or fish, optional500 g
- onion, large; chopped1
- tomato, diced2
- garlic, minced2 clove
- ginger, fresh; grated1 tsp
- vegetable oil2 tbsp
- water or stock5 cup
- carrot, diced1
- potatoes, diced; optional1
- curry powder1 tsp
- salt, to taste
- black pepper, to taste
- coriander, fresh; chopped; for garnish
Quantities are auto-calculated from the original recipe as a guide. Items without numbers (e.g. “to taste”) are not changed.
Method 15 steps
Peel and slice the green bananas into medium-sized pieces.
If using meat, cook it in a pot with water until tender and reserve the stock.
Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the onion and cook until soft and translucent.
Stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute.
Add the tomatoes and cook until softened.
Stir in the curry powder.
Add the bananas, carrot, and potato.
Pour in the stock or water and bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat and simmer for 30–40 minutes, or until the bananas are very soft.
Add the cooked meat or fish if using.
Season with salt and black pepper.
Mash some of the bananas with a spoon to thicken the soup, if desired.
Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot.