Mundiri Bari-Style Collard Greens | South Sudan Vegan Collard Recipe

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Mundiri Bari-Style Collard Greens

Bari-Style Collard Greens, also known as Mundiri, is a flavorful and nutritious vegetable dish enjoyed by the Bari people of South Sudan. The Bari primarily live in the Central and Eastern Equatoria states, where collard greens are a beloved staple. This dish celebrates their culinary heritage through slow-cooked greens, aromatic spices, and natural flavors that nourish body and spirit.

This hearty vegan dish pairs perfectly with Ugali (cornmeal porridge) or chapati flatbread, and it also complements grilled meats or rice. The addition of ginger and peppers gives this Bari favorite its signature warmth.

Ingredients

• 1 bunch collard greens (or 2 prepackaged bags)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tomato, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh lemon wedges, for serving

Directions

1. Wash the collard greens well. Remove tough stems, roll the leaves, and slice thinly.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until golden, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute, then add tomatoes and peppers. Cook until softened.
4. Add the collard greens and stir well to coat them in the aromatics.
5. Season with cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Mix evenly.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until tender and flavorful.
7. Serve hot with fresh lemon wedges for brightness.

Mundiri Bari-Style Collard Greens are a cornerstone of South Sudanese home cooking — earthy, spicy, and filled with ancestral flavor. For more plant-based African recipes, explore:

• Caldo Verde: Portuguese Kale Soup with African Roots
• Mood Food Therapy: How Emotions Shape Taste
• African Cuisine Hub — discover more traditional and modern vegan dishes.