N'Dizi ya na Nyama

Ingredients

 * 1¼ to 1½ cups water
 * 3 pounds lean beef tips, cut into small cubes
 * ½ teaspoon crumbled dried thyme
 * salt to taste
 * black pepper to taste
 * 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
 * 1 teaspoon chopped garlic
 * 2 onions, finely chopped
 * 2 ripe tomatoes, diced
 * 4 large green plantains, peeled and cubed
 * 10 ounces freshly shelled green peas
 * 1 pint coconut milk

Directions

 * 1) Place water in large pot and add beef.
 * 2) Bring to boil and add thyme, salt and pepper.
 * 3) Cover and reduce to simmer then cook until beef is tender, 30 to 45 minutes, set pot aside.
 * 4) In heavy skillet, add oil and heat.
 * 5) When oil is hot, but not smoking, add garlic, onions and tomatoes and cook until onions are translucent.
 * 6) Add beef to vegetables and reduce heat; cook slowly about 10 minutes.
 * 7) Add plantains, peas and coconut milk and continue to simmer over low heat 5 to 10 minutes.
 * 8) Adjust seasonings to taste and cook another 10 to 15 minutes.