Djaba Dji (Onion Sauce)
Djaba Dji is a flavorful Malian sauce primarily made from onions, often served as a condiment or a base for stews. It's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed with rice, couscous, or grilled meats, showcasing the rich flavors of Malian cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Beef or lamb(cut into small cubes)
- 4 large Onions(thinly sliced)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 2 cups Water or broth
- 1 tbsp Fakoye spice blend(or a Moroccan spice blend (cumin, coriander, allspice, nutmeg))
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the cubed beef or lamb and brown it on all sides. Remove the meat and set aside.
- 2
Add the thinly sliced onions to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 10-15 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- 4
Return the browned meat to the pot. Add the Fakoye spice blend (or Moroccan blend), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- 5
Pour in the water or broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- 6
Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot with rice, couscous, or grilled meats.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓If Fakoye spice blend is unavailable, a Moroccan blend of cumin, coriander, allspice, and nutmeg can be used as a substitute.
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.
- ✓Ensure the onions are cooked down until very soft to create a smooth sauce base.
🔄 Variations
- Add chopped bell peppers along with the onions for extra flavor and color.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more vegetables like eggplant or sweet potatoes.