Authentic Cameroonian Ndolé Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of bitter leaves (or spinach as an alternative)
  • 500 grams of beef
  • 300 grams of peeled and cooked shrimps
  • 200 grams of peanuts
  • 3 cloves of garlic
  • 1 large onion
  • 1 tablespoon of red pepper powder
  • 1 cube of chicken bouillon
  • 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
  • Salt to taste

Steps and instructions

  1. Start by rinsing the bitter leaves with warm water to remove some of their bitterness, then chop them coarsely.
  2. Blend the peanuts into a paste, adding a little water if necessary to get the right consistency.
  3. Heat the oil in a large saucepan, then add the finely chopped onion and crushed garlic. Cook for a few minutes until they become translucent.
  4. Add the beef to the saucepan and cook until it's browned on all sides.
  5. Stir in the peanut paste, red pepper powder, and crumbled chicken bouillon cube. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
  6. Add the chopped bitter leaves or spinach to the saucepan. Let everything cook together on a low heat for about 20 minutes.
  7. Add the cooked shrimps to the pan and stir well. Let the ndolé simmer for another 10 minutes, then check the seasoning and add salt if necessary.
  8. Serve the ndolé hot with rice or plantains for a complete meal.

Tools for making

  • Saucepan - A large saucepan will be needed to cook the ndolé.
  • Blender - A blender is required to blend the peanuts into a paste.
  • Knife - A sharp knife will be needed to chop the bitter leaves, onion, and garlic.
  • Cutting board - A cutting board will provide a stable surface for chopping ingredients.
  • Spatula - A spatula or wooden spoon will be useful for stirring the ingredients in the saucepan.
  • Measuring spoon - A tablespoon can be used to measure the red pepper powder and vegetable oil.
  • Peeler - A peeler may be required to peel and cook the shrimps.
  • Cooking pot - A separate cooking pot will be needed if you plan to serve the ndolé with rice or plantains.

Recipe variations

  • Use chicken instead of beef for a lighter version of the dish.
  • Replace the bitter leaves with spinach or kale if you prefer a milder flavor.
  • Try using smoked fish or dried shrimp as a substitute for the cooked shrimps.
  • Add some diced tomatoes or tomato paste for a richer and tangier sauce.
  • Include other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or okra for added texture and flavor.
  • Experiment with different spices such as ginger, paprika, or cayenne pepper to customize the seasoning.
  • For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and shrimp and add extra vegetables or tofu instead.
  • Incorporate coconut milk for a creamy twist to the dish.
  • If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can add a spoonful of cornstarch or ground melon seeds to the sauce.

Recipe overview

Ndolé is a nutritious and richly flavored dish from Cameroon, often considered the country's national dish. This recipe is a delicious combination of bitter leaves (or spinach), beef, shrimps, and peanuts. Cooking these ingredients together results in a unique blend of tastes and textures that is truly remarkable. The process of making Ndolé involves several steps, but each one is simple and straightforward. You'll begin by preparing and sautéing the vegetables and meat, then you'll blend in the peanut paste to create a creamy, savory sauce. Last but not least, the shrimps are added for an extra layer of flavor. Though traditionally served with rice or plantains, Ndolé can also be enjoyed on its own. This versatile dish is perfect for a hearty dinner or a special occasion. Prepare to immerse yourself in the flavors of Cameroon and enjoy the cooking journey!

Common questions

  1. Can I use spinach instead of bitter leaves? - Yes, you can substitute spinach for bitter leaves if you prefer a milder flavor.
  2. Can I use chicken or another protein instead of beef? - Absolutely, feel free to use chicken, fish, or any other protein of your choice. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  3. Is it necessary to peel and cook the shrimps beforehand? - Yes, the shrimps should be peeled and cooked before adding them to the dish.
  4. Can I use store-bought peanut butter instead of blending peanuts? - While you can use peanut butter as a shortcut, blending peanuts will give a more authentic and flavorful taste to the dish.
  5. What can I serve ndolé with? - Ndolé is traditionally served with rice or boiled plantains. You can also enjoy it with fufu, yam, or any other starchy side dish.
  6. Is ndolé a spicy dish? - The level of spiciness can be adjusted based on your preference. The red pepper powder provides a mild to medium level of heat, but you can increase or decrease the amount according to your taste.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large saucepan - For cooking the ndolé and combining all the ingredients.
  • Blender - To blend the peanuts into a smooth paste.
  • Knife - For chopping the bitter leaves, onion, and garlic.
  • Cutting board - To provide a stable surface for chopping the ingredients.
  • Wooden spoon - For stirring and mixing the ndolé while it cooks.
  • Measuring spoons - To accurately measure the red pepper powder and salt.
  • Cooking utensils - Such as tongs or spatulas for handling the beef and shrimps while cooking.
  • Rice cooker or pot - If serving with rice, a rice cooker or pot is needed to cook the rice separately.
  • Plates and bowls - For serving the cooked ndolé and accompanying rice or plantains.
  • Serving spoon or ladle - To portion out the ndolé onto plates.

Origin stories

Ndolé is a beloved dish hailing from the vibrant country of Cameroon, in Central Africa. Embodying a unique blend of flavors, it's often dubbed the national dish of Cameroon. Intriguingly, the name "Ndolé" originates from the Duala language and translates to "bitter leaves," which is the key ingredient in this recipe. The culinary traditions around Ndolé date back hundreds of years and have been passed down through generations, signifying its deep cultural and historical roots. It's traditionally served at festive occasions and gatherings, making it more than just a meal but a symbol of Cameroonian hospitality and togetherness. It's said that a Cameroonian party is incomplete without a hearty serving of Ndolé!

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.