Today, we will learn how to make Lituma. It is a side dish that is vegan, delicious and so versatile originally from Congo. It does not only taste great but it also is healthy for you.
Lituma is a mashed plantains pounded in a mortar traditionally after being boiled for awhile. It is made with unripe and ripe plantains. It has the consistency of a dough with a very blend taste. It is meant to go with meat or fish. It plays the same role as fufu would in a meal.
It is very important to use unripe plantains since lituma is not supposed to taste sweet or be too soft. Just one ripe plantains would to the trick to help blend the plantains.
Now, I have said that the traditional way was to keep it blend. However, in true Blue Fufu way we will add some flavor because…WHY NOT?! 😉
If you are looking for the traditional recipe, this post might not be for you. I have nothing against tradition. This is my attempt to involve the recipe to my liking.
I believe that it is time that we explore different ways of eating it. Just writing about it gets me excited because possibilities are endless. Now, this version is not too far fetch, I will admit. It did though get my wheels going. This is not the last time that you will hear about lituma…The bluefufu way that is. 😉
All I did this time was add some lime zest and a little bit of its juice. This addition goes well with a fish recipe that I will introduce to you very soon.
Where do you buy plantains?
Nowadays, you can find plantains at your local groceries store. I would suggest buying the green ones since the temperature in groceries tend to be too low for them to ripe properly. If you want them to ripe evenly, place them in a dark place in your pantry where the temperature is warmer. It will take couple of days for them to be ready.
How to make lituma
Peel the plantains and cut them in big chunks
In a large pot, cover them with water and let them boil until there isn’t more water.
In the food processor, chop them until you get a play heavy dough consistency.
Spread the dough on a plate to let any air out. Let it breath for 5 min.
If you still have big pieces of plantains showing, you can repeat the process.
*Optional: Add zest of lime and mix it.
With clean hands, make a long baguette and cut pieces with a food twine.
Hopefully, you will fill inspired to create new recipes too. I hope you enjoy this recipe and remember that new recipes are the thrill of living.
Enjoy!
How to make lituma
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 20 min
- Total Time: 25 min
Description
Mashed plantains also called lituma in Congo.
Ingredients
2 unripe plantains
2 almost ripe plantains
A dash of oil (optional)
Instructions
Peel the plantains and cut them in big chunks
In a large pot, cover them with water and let them boil until there isn’t more water.
In the food processor, chop them until you get a play heavy dough consistency.
Spread the dough on a plate to let any air out. Let it breath for 5 min.
If you still have big pieces of plantains showing, you can repeat the process.
*Optional: Add zest of lime and mix it.
With clean hands, make a long baguette and cut pieces with a food twine.
I have always wanted to try this. I bookmarked the recipe to give it a go this weekend. Thanks for sharing.
This recipe is simple and delicious! I love cooking with plantains.
What a great recipe! I am always looking for new and exciting ways to diversify my palate, can’t wait to try this!
Let me know how it turns out!
Never heard of Lituma before, but sounds interesting. Will give it a try!
i’ve never heard of lituma before but it sounds very satisfying to go with my rice bowl to bulk it up. looking forward to making this
I have never made lituma before, but I am so excited to try! Making this weekend!