Tanzanian Maharage (Beans in Coconut Sauce)

  • Total time - 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Preparation - 15 minutes
  • Cooking time - 1 hour
  • Servings: 4
  • Country: Tanzania
A rich bowl of Tanzanian Maharage stew with red beans in a thick, creamy sauce.

Maharage proves that healthy food can be incredibly delicious. The full-bodied flavor of the sauce pairs perfectly with the beans, creating a filling and satisfying meal. While often served with rice or ugali, it is also excellent on its own as a soup or stew.

Ingredients

For the Maharage

  • 2 cans (400 g) canned red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • 1 can (400 ml) full-fat coconut milk
  • 2 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder (or a mix of turmeric, cumin, and coriander)
  • salt and black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the base

In a pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent.

Step 2: Create the sauce

Add the crushed garlic and grated ginger and cook for about a minute until fragrant. Add the diced tomatoes and cook until they break down and form a sauce. Stir in the curry powder and cook for another minute to toast the spices.

Step 3: Cook the stew

Add the rinsed beans and the full-fat coconut milk to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and cover the pot.

Step 4: Finishing up

Simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency and the flavors have melded. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serving

Serve the hot Maharage immediately, ideally with a side of Wali (coconut rice) or Ugali.