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Bitekuteku (Braised Amaranth Greens with Smoked Fish)
Tender amaranth greens simmered gently with flaked smoked catfish, tomatoes, and aromatic alliums in rich red palm oil.
The story
A staple across Western DRC and the Kongo cultural basin, Bitekuteku is an everyday family lunch centerpiece traditionally paired with fufu or chikwangue cassava bread. The dish honors the deep green amaranth plant, prized for its silky mouthfeel and earthy depth when braised down. Experienced home cooks know to thoroughly desalt and rehydrate the smoked fish before simmering so its rich umami infuses the tender greens without overwhelming their subtle flavor.
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