Matooke, also known as East African Highland bananas, is a staple in many East African countries, especially Uganda. Peeling matooke can be a bit tricky if you’re not familiar with the process, as the bananas are starchy and have a tough, fibrous skin. Here’s how you can easily peel matooke:
What You’ll Need
A bunch of matooke (green cooking bananas)
A sharp knife
A bowl of water (optional, to prevent the peeled matooke from browning)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cut the Tips
Cut Off Both Ends: Use a sharp knife to cut off the top and bottom tips of each banana. This makes it easier to start peeling.
2. Make a Vertical Slit
Score the Peel: Starting at one of the cut ends, use the knife to make a shallow vertical slit down the length of the banana. Be careful not to cut too deep into the flesh of the banana—just enough to pierce the skin.
3. Peel the Skin
Loosen the Skin: Insert your thumb or the tip of the knife under the edge of the peel where you made the slit.
Peel Back the Skin: Carefully pull back the skin along the slit. The skin may come off in sections. If it’s tough, you might need to use the knife to help lift it away from the flesh.
Repeat on the Other Side: If the banana skin is particularly tough or fibrous, you might need to make another slit on the opposite side and repeat the process.
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