Botswana Lamb and Bean Stew
Nama ya Kwena le Dinawa
A hearty and flavorful stew featuring tender lamb and protein-rich beans, simmered in a savory broth with aromatic spices. This dish is a testament to Botswana's use of readily available ingredients.
🧂 Ingredients
- 600 g Lamb(cubed, preferably shoulder or leg)
- 250 g Dried beans(e.g., black-eyed peas or kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained)
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 400 g Tomatoes(canned diced tomatoes)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 750 ml Beef broth
- 1 tbsp Curry powder
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1 Bay leaf
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb cubes on all sides. Remove lamb and set aside.
- 2
Add chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in curry powder, cumin, and coriander powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- 4
Return the lamb to the pot. Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour.
- 5
Add the soaked and drained beans to the stew. Stir well, cover, and continue to simmer for another 30-45 minutes, or until the lamb is very tender and the beans are cooked through.
- 6
If the stew is too thin, remove the lid and simmer for a few more minutes to thicken. Adjust seasoning as needed. Remove bay leaf before serving.
- 7
Serve hot, ideally with pap or rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Soaking beans overnight is crucial for reducing cooking time and improving digestibility.
- ✓For a deeper flavor, you can sear the lamb in batches.
- ✓Adjust the amount of curry powder and other spices to your preference.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add chopped carrots or potatoes for extra vegetables.
- For a spicier kick, add a finely chopped chili pepper along with the garlic and ginger.