Matata

Description
Matata is a typical Mozambique entree made with pumpkin leaves. We have used spinach as a substitute. This is one dish that wasn't influenced by the cooking of Portugal. Imagine a combination like clams and peanuts and tender young greens! You may want to hold out the crushed red pepper. Start without it and add it gradually, with discretion.

Directions

 * 1) In a 4-quart saucepan
 * 2) Saute: 1 cup onions chopped finely in
 * 3) 2 oz. olive oil until soft but not brown.
 * Add: 4 cups CANNED CHOPPED CLAMS
 * 1) 1 cup peanuts, chopped finely
 * 2) 2 tomatoes cut in small pieces
 * 3) 1 Tbs. salt
 * 4) 1/2 tsp. black pepper
 * 5) 1 tsp. crushed red pepper.
 * 6) Simmer gently for 30 minutes.
 * 7) Add 1 1/2 Ibs. FRESH spinach (young leaves) chopped finely.
 * 8) Cover tightly and, as soon as leaves have wilted, Matata is ready to serve.
 * 9) Correct the Seasoning
 * 10) Cook:
 * 11) 2 cups white rice in
 * 12) 5 cups BOILING SALTED water until tender.
 * 13) Serve over rice.