Luwombo is a traditional Ugandan dish where chicken (or other meats) and vegetables are slow-cooked in banana leaves, resulting in a flavorful and aromatic one-pot meal. This festive season, why not tantalise your guests’ taste buds with delicious luwombo?

For the Marinade:

• About one kilogramme chicken or meat, cut into pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Luwombo:

• Banana leaves (for wrapping and steaming)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 big carrot, cut into short, thin strips
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 1 cup cabbage, shredded
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Marinate the meat:

• In a large bowl, combine the chicken or meat pieces with vegetable oil, chopped onion, minced garlic, minced ginger, ground coriander, curry powder, salt, and pepper.
• Mix well, ensuring the meat is evenly coated with the marinade.
• Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours, or overnight for better flavour.

2. Prepare the banana leaves:

• If using fresh banana leaves, quickly pass them over an open flame to soften them. This will make them more pliable for wrapping. These are also sold already made in most markets in Kampala.
• Cut the banana leaves into square pieces large enough to wrap individual portions of meat and vegetables.

3. Assemble the Luwombo:

• Place a banana leaf on a flat surface.
• Add a portion of marinated chicken or meat to the center of the leaf.
• Surround the chicken, meat with sliced onions, chopped tomatoes, green bell pepper, julienned carrots, chopped green beans, and shredded cabbage.
• Pour a bit of broth over the ingredients.
• Season with salt and pepper.

4. Wrap and tie:

• Fold the banana leaf over the ingredients to form a neat parcel.
• Secure the parcel by tying it with kitchen twine or banana fibres. Repeat for each serving.

5. Steam the Luwombo:

• In a large steamer or pot with a steaming basket, arrange the wrapped luwombo parcels.
• Steam for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
• Check the water level in the steamer periodically and add more if needed.

6. Serve:

• Carefully unwrap the luwombo parcels and transfer the contents to serving plates.
• Garnish with herbs of your choice. Serve the luwombo with rice, posho, matooke, or your favourite side dish.

This traditional Ugandan dish is not only delicious but also a unique and beautiful way to present a flavorful meat and vegetable stew. Adjust the ingredients and seasonings to suit your taste preferences.