Saka-Saka

Saka-Saka

Saka-Saka (SAH-kah SAH-kah)

Cassava Greens with Palm Oil

Prep Time 45 min
📈 Difficulty Hard
👥 Servings
6
🔥 Calories 368 kcal

Finely shredded cassava leaves braised slowly in palm oil with garlic, onions, and ground peanuts, creating a rich, emerald-green dish bursting with umami depth.

Nutrition & Info

360 kcal per serving
Protein 18.0g
Carbs 20.0g
Fat 24.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

gluten-free dairy-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ peanuts

Equipment Needed

large pot mortar and pestle wooden spoon

Presentation Guide

Vessel: deep serving bowl

Garnishes: palm oil drizzle, ground peanuts

Accompaniments: fufu, chikwanga, rice

Instructions

  1. 1

    Pound cassava leaves in a mortar until very finely shredded. Wash and drain.

  2. 2

    Heat palm oil in a large pot. Saute onions and garlic until golden.

  3. 3

    Add pounded cassava leaves and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

  4. 4

    Cook covered for 1-1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.

  5. 5

    Add ground peanuts, smoked fish, bouillon cubes, and scotch bonnet peppers.

  6. 6

    Continue cooking for 30-40 minutes until leaves are very tender and sauce is thick. Serve hot with fufu.

💡

Did You Know?

Saka-saka is so beloved in both Congos that it has been called the unofficial national dish — eaten more frequently than any other single recipe.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • large pot
  • mortar and pestle
  • wooden spoon

Garnishing

palm oil drizzle, ground peanuts

Accompaniments

fufu, chikwanga, rice

The Story Behind Saka-Saka

Saka-saka predates colonial history in the Congo Basin. The peanut addition likely arrived via Portuguese trade routes from Brazil in the 16th century, creating the version known today. It remains the most frequently consumed dish across the DRC.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed daily staple, all meals 📜 Origins: Ancient Central African origins

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