Ecomely

Language

Mchicha (Tanzanian spinach): recipe illustration
Vegetarian

Mchicha (Tanzanian spinach)

Amaranth leaves gently cooked with onions and tomatoes until tender and slightly silky. A very popular leafy vegetable in Tanzania, rich in flavour and iron, served as a side dish.

Made it? Rate this recipe

Save to favoritesAdd to my shopping list

Ingredients

Ingredients

Spices & seasoning

Optional extras

On the side

Instructions

  1. Rinse the amaranth leaves thoroughly, drain them and roughly chop.
  2. Fry the sliced onions in the oil over medium heat for 6 minutes.
  3. Add the crushed garlic and diced tomatoes, then cook for 5 minutes until you have a sauce.
  4. Add the leaves a handful at a time, stirring until they wilt.
  5. Cover and simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring now and then, until the leaves are tender.
  6. Season with salt and chili, then serve hot.

Variations and tips

Creamy version. Add the coconut milk at the end of cooking for a smoother texture.

More ideas

Kande (bean patties)45 min · 4 serv. · budget-friendlyMaharage ya nazi (kidney beans in coconut sauce)1 h 10 · 4 serv. · budget-friendlyMboga ya viazi (potatoes stewed with vegetables)45 min · 4 serv. · budget-friendlyMchicha wa karanga (spinach in peanut sauce)40 min · 4 serv. · budget-friendlyMchuzi wa mboga za majani (leafy green vegetable stew)35 min · 4 serv. · budget-friendlyMchuzi wa mtama (sorghum sauce)1 h 30 · 4 serv. · budget-friendlyKande ya nazi (bean and coconut fritters)40 min · 4 serv.Mchicha wa nazi (coconut spinach)35 min · 4 serv. · budget-friendly

Original Ecomely recipe.