Central Africa · Side
Foutou de Banane (Mashed Plantain and Cassava Loaf)
A smooth, elastic Central African staple loaf created by pounding sweet yellow plantains together with starchy steamed cassava root.
The story
Deep in the equatorial rainforests of the Lobaye and Sangha-Mbaéré prefectures, Foutou de Banane is prepared as the revered central starch for celebratory feasts and family gatherings. River and forest peoples, such as the Gbaya and Bofi, prize the dual texture created by combining firm cassava with caramelized plantain. A critical technical detail lies in pounding the cassava first to break its tough cell walls before introducing the softer plantain, preventing the dough from turning lumpy or ropey.
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