Modje

Name: Modje
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Cape Verdean
Ingredients: 3 green bananas, peeled and thickly sliced; 2 sweet potatoes, cubed; 300g butternut squash, cubed; 200g cassava, peeled and cubed; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 onion, diced; Salt and black pepper; 500ml water

Modje (MOH-djeh)

Stewed Vegetables

⏱ Prep Time 15 min

📈 Difficulty Easy

👥 Servings

🔥 Calories 262 kcal

A humble yet hearty Cape Verdean vegetable stew of green bananas, sweet potatoes, and squash cooked with garlic and olive oil until meltingly tender.

Nutrition & Info

Protein 4.0g

Carbs 48.0g

Fat 6.0g

Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

vegetarian gluten-free nut-free

Equipment Needed

large pot sharp knife wooden spoon

Presentation Guide

Vessel: deep earthenware bowl

Garnishes: drizzle of olive oil

Accompaniments: grilled fish, rice

Ingredients

3 green bananas, peeled and thickly sliced
2 sweet potatoes, cubed
300g butternut squash, cubed
200g cassava, peeled and cubed
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, diced
Salt and black pepper
500ml water

Instructions

1
Heat olive oil in a large pot. Sauté onion and garlic for 3 min until fragrant.
2
Add sweet potatoes, squash, and cassava. Stir to coat with oil.
3
Pour in water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 10 min.
4
Add green bananas. Continue simmering 15 min until all vegetables are tender.
5
Season with salt and pepper. Serve as a hearty side dish.

💡

Did You Know?

On Santiago island, the specific combination of vegetables in modje varies by season and by what each family grows in their own garden.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

large pot
sharp knife
wooden spoon

Garnishing

drizzle of olive oil

Accompaniments

grilled fish, rice

The Story Behind Modje

Modje represents the agricultural soul of Cape Verde. Before colonial trade routes brought new ingredients, islanders sustained themselves on root vegetables and plantains. This simple stew has nourished Cape Verdean families for centuries and remains everyday comfort food.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed lunch or dinner side 📜 Origins: Pre-colonial era

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