Binyeebwa (groundnut sauce) cooked in Luwombo is a traditional Ugandan dish often served during special occasions. Luwombo is a method of steaming food wrapped in banana leaves, which adds a rich, smoky flavour to the dish. Here’s a detailed recipe:

Ingredients:

• Groundnuts (peanuts), roasted and blended into a fine paste
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped or blended
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 small piece of fresh ginger, minced
• 1 cup chicken, beef, or smoked fish (optional, pre-cooked)
• 1 small green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavour)
• Salt to taste
• 1-2 banana leaves, cleaned and softened over low heat
• String or banana fibre, for tying the luwombo
• 2-3 cups warm water

Preparing the banana leaves:

1. Heat the banana leaves gently over an open flame or on a hot surface to soften them (this prevents them from breaking when folding).
2. Cut the leaves into large pieces, ensuring there’s enough to form a pouch for the luwombo.

Making the groundnut sauce:

1. In a saucepan, sauté the onions, garlic, and ginger in a little oil until fragrant.
2. Add the tomatoes and cook until they form a thick paste.
3. Stir in the groundnut paste, smoked paprika, and salt. Mix thoroughly.
4. Gradually add warm water, stirring constantly to make a smooth, thick sauce.

Assembling the Luwombo:

1. Place one softened banana leaf in a wide bowl, ensuring it forms a cup-like shape.
2. Add a portion of the groundnut sauce to the centre. If using meat or fish, place it in the sauce.
3. Top with a few slices of green bell pepper for flavour.
4. Fold the banana leaf carefully to enclose the sauce completely, forming a pouch. Secure the pouch with string or banana fibre.

Steaming the Luwombo:

1. Place the luwombo pouch(es) in a steamer or a large pot lined with extra banana leaves to prevent burning.
2. Add water to the pot without touching the luwombo pouch. Cover the pot and steam over medium heat for about 1-2 hours, checking occasionally to ensure the water doesn’t dry out.

Serving

Carefully unwrap the banana leaf and serve the binyeebwa luwombo with matooke (steamed green bananas), rice, sweet potatoes, or posho (ugali). Enjoy this aromatic and flavourful Ugandan delicacy.