Central African Lovo Feast

Ingredients

In Central African cuisine, the Lovo is adapted to incorporate local ingredients and spices. While the Pacific Northwest Lovo may feature salmon and other seafood, the Central African version focuses on meats like chicken, beef, and goat. Additionally, Central African Lovo incorporates traditional African spices such as cayenne pepper, ginger, and garlic, adding a unique and fiery flavor profile to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Lovo, so you can check it out.

• 2 pounds (900g) chicken, cut into pieces 2 pounds (900g) chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 pounds (900g) beef, cut into chunks 2 pounds (900g) beef, cut into chunks
• 1 pound (450g) goat meat, cut into pieces 1 pound (450g) goat meat, cut into pieces
• 2 onions, finely chopped 2 onions, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons ginger, grated 2 tablespoons ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper
• 2 tablespoons paprika 2 tablespoons paprika
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 tomatoes, diced 4 tomatoes, diced
• 4 bell peppers, sliced 4 bell peppers, sliced
• 4 carrots, sliced 4 carrots, sliced
• 4 plantains, peeled and cut into chunks 4 plantains, peeled and cut into chunks
• 4 sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks 4 sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 4 corn cobs, halved 4 corn cobs, halved
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Banana leaves for wrapping Banana leaves for wrapping

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 10g
• Protein: 40g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the chicken, beef, goat meat, onions, garlic, ginger, cayenne pepper, paprika, vegetable oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the meat is evenly coated with the marinade. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
2. 2.
   Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat.
3. 3.
   Take a large piece of banana leaf and place a portion of the marinated meat in the center. Add a few pieces of tomato, bell pepper, carrot, plantain, sweet potato, and corn on top of the meat.
4. 4.
   Fold the banana leaf over the ingredients, creating a neat package. Secure the package with cooking twine or toothpicks.
5. 5.
   Repeat the process with the remaining ingredients.
6. 6.
   Place the wrapped packages on the grill or in the oven and cook for about 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
7. 7.
   Carefully unwrap the packages and transfer the contents to a serving platter.
8. 8.
   Serve the Central African Lovo hot and enjoy with your loved ones.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken — Make sure to remove the skin for a healthier version of the dish.
• Beef — Opt for lean cuts of beef to reduce the fat content.
• Goat meat — If goat meat is not available, you can substitute it with lamb or beef.

Tips & Tricks

• Soak the banana leaves in warm water for a few minutes before using them to make them more pliable.
• If you don't have access to banana leaves, you can use aluminum foil as a substitute.
• Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your spice preference.
• Serve the Lovo with a side of hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Central African Lovo on a large platter, allowing everyone to help themselves. Encourage your guests to unwrap their individual packages, revealing the aromatic and flavorful contents. This communal dining experience adds to the joy and togetherness of the meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the unwrapped Lovo packages on the platter, showcasing the vibrant colors of the vegetables and the succulent meats. Garnish with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley for an added touch of freshness.