Discover the rich taste of Ghana with this traditional Kotomire Stew recipe. Learn how to cook kontomire with smoked fish, meat, and flavorful spices—plus perfect side dish pairings.
Introduction: What Is Kotomire Stew?
Kotomire stew, also known as kontomire stew, is a beloved Ghanaian dish made from finely chopped cocoyam leaves. It’s hearty, flavorful, and often cooked with palm oil, smoked or salted fish, meat, tomatoes, and local spices. This nutritious stew is packed with iron, vitamins, and a taste of home.
Whether served with yam, rice, or fufu, kotomire stew is a true comfort food in many Ghanaian homes. Below is a traditional recipe you can try today.
🍲 Ingredients for Kotomire Stew
- 2 bunches of cocoyam leaves (kontomire), chopped
- 1 medium-sized smoked or salted fish (optional)
- 1 lb of meat (goat, beef, or chicken), cut into pieces (optional)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3–4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 2–3 tomatoes, chopped or blended
- 2–3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1–2 Scotch bonnet or habanero peppers, chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup palm oil
- 1–2 tablespoons dried shrimp or crayfish powder (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Seasoning cubes (optional)
- 2–3 cups of water or stock
👩🏾🍳 How to Prepare Kotomire Stew: Step-by-Step
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Wash and chop cocoyam leaves finely.
- Soak salted/smoked fish to reduce saltiness and debone.
- Season and parboil meat if using.
2. Cook the Meat
- In a pot, cook meat with water, salt, and seasoning until tender.
- Save the broth for use later.
3. Heat the Palm Oil
- In the same pot or a new one, heat palm oil until it begins to smoke lightly.
4. Fry the Aromatics
- Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Add garlic, ginger, and pepper. Stir and cook until fragrant.
5. Add Tomatoes
- Stir in blended/chopped tomatoes and tomato paste.
- Cook for 10–15 minutes until thick and oil begins to separate.
6. Add Fish and Meat
- Add your smoked/salted fish, cooked meat, and dried shrimp if using.
- Mix well with the tomato base.
7. Add Kontomire Leaves
- Add chopped kontomire leaves and stir to combine.
- Pour in broth or water to create desired consistency.
8. Simmer
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 20–30 minutes.
- Stir occasionally until leaves are soft and stew thickens.
9. Season to Taste
- Adjust with salt and seasoning cubes as needed.
10. Serve Hot
- Enjoy with your choice of traditional Ghanaian sides!
🥘 Perfect Side Dishes for Kotomire Stew
Pairing kotomire stew with the right starch creates a balanced, satisfying meal. Here are the best options:
1. Boiled Yam
A popular and classic choice that soaks up the stew beautifully.
2. Boiled Plantains
Use ripe for a sweet touch or unripe for a firmer, more neutral bite.
3. Plain Rice
A simple yet perfect base for soaking up all the rich flavors.
4. Banku
A tangy, fermented dough made from cassava and corn, ideal for dipping.
5. Eba
Made from cassava flour (garri), eba adds a soft texture and earthy taste.
6. Fufu
Whether made from yams, plantains, or cassava, fufu pairs wonderfully with kotomire stew.
7. Kenkey
This fermented corn dough offers a sour, chewy contrast to the rich stew.
8. Boiled Potatoes
For a more familiar twist, boiled potatoes are a good alternative.
🌿 Final Thoughts
Kotomire stew isn’t just a meal—it’s a cultural experience that brings people together. Rich in flavor and tradition, it embodies the heart of Ghanaian home cooking.
Call to Action:
Have you tried kotomire stew before? Share your favorite side dish pairing in the comments or tag us on Instagram @LetsDiscoverAfrica with your homemade plate!
