Ndolé Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids
Ndolé
Ndolè with meat, morrue and shrimp
Type	Stew
Place of origin	Cameroon
Serving temperature	Hot
Main ingredients	nuts, ndoleh, fish or ground beef
Other information	It is the national dish of Cameroon.

Ndolé is a famous and much-loved dish from Cameroon, a country in Central Africa. It is so important that it is considered the national dish of Cameroon! This tasty meal is a type of stew that combines special bitter leaves, ground nuts, and usually some kind of meat or fish.

Ndolé is known for its rich flavor and creamy texture. It is a dish that brings families and friends together, often served at celebrations and important gatherings.

What is Ndolé?
Main Ingredients of Ndolé
- The Ndoleh Leaves
- Nuts and Protein
How Ndolé is Served
Cultural Importance
Gallery
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What is Ndolé?

Ndolé is a hearty stew made with several key ingredients. The main ones are a type of leafy green vegetable called ndoleh (which are bitter leaves), ground nuts (often peanuts or egusi seeds), and a protein like beef, fish, or shrimp.

The bitter leaves are carefully prepared to remove their strong bitterness. This usually involves washing and boiling them many times. This step is very important to make the dish delicious.

Main Ingredients of Ndolé

The Ndoleh Leaves

The ndoleh leaves are the star of this dish. They come from a plant called Vernonia amygdalina, which grows in West Africa. These leaves are naturally very bitter. To make them edible and tasty for the stew, they are washed and squeezed repeatedly. Sometimes, they are even boiled with baking soda to help remove the bitterness. This process takes time and effort, showing how much care goes into making Ndolé.

Nuts and Protein

After the leaves are ready, they are cooked with a rich, creamy sauce made from ground nuts. Peanuts are often used, giving the stew a nutty flavor and thick texture. Sometimes, egusi seeds (from a type of melon) are used instead.

For the protein part, people can choose what they like best. Common choices include tender pieces of beef, smoked fish, or fresh shrimp. Some recipes even mix different types of protein for a richer taste.

How Ndolé is Served

Ndolé is usually served hot and is a very filling meal. It is often eaten with other traditional Cameroonian foods. These include:

Plantains: These are like large bananas that are cooked, often boiled or fried.
Bobolo: This is a type of bread or dumpling made from fermented cassava (also known as manioc). It is usually wrapped in leaves and steamed.
Miondo: Similar to bobolo, miondo is also made from cassava and is a popular side dish.
Rice: Sometimes, Ndolé is simply served with plain white rice.

The combination of the rich stew with these starchy sides makes Ndolé a complete and satisfying meal.

Cultural Importance

Ndolé is more than just food in Cameroon; it is a symbol of national pride and hospitality. It is a dish that grandmothers teach their grandchildren to make, passing down traditions through generations. Serving Ndolé to guests is a sign of welcome and respect. It is a dish that truly represents the heart of Cameroonian cuisine and culture.