Gango (Mixed Meat BBQ)
Gango is a popular Zimbabwean street food and social dish, featuring a flavorful mix of grilled meats (often chicken, beef, and sometimes offal) cooked together with vegetables like onions and tomatoes. It's typically prepared over an open fire or in a single pot, creating a hearty and communal meal often enjoyed at gatherings and celebrations. Gango embodies the spirit of Zimbabwean social culture, where families and friends come together around the grill.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Beef chuck(cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 500 g Chicken thighs(boneless, skinless, cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 200 g Beef or lamb offal (optional)(e.g., tripe or liver, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 medium Large onions(sliced)
- 400 g Tomatoes(diced)
- 2 medium Green bell peppers(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 tsp Curry powder
- 1 tsp Paprika
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 3 tbsp Cooking oil
- 1 cup Water or beef broth
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
If using offal, parboil it separately until tender, then drain and set aside. This helps to tenderize it and reduce any strong flavors.
💡 Tip: Parboiling time will vary depending on the type of offal. - 2
Heat cooking oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
- 3
Add the chicken pieces to the pot and brown them. Remove and set aside with the beef.
- 4
If using offal, add it to the pot and sauté for a few minutes.
- 5
Add the sliced onions and chopped green bell peppers to the pot. Sauté until softened.
- 6
Stir in the minced garlic, curry powder, and paprika. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 7
Add the diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and form a sauce.
- 8
Return the browned beef, chicken, and parboiled offal (if using) to the pot. Add the water or beef broth.
💡 Tip: Ensure the liquid is enough to partially submerge the meat. - 9
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 45 minutes, or until the meats are tender. Stir occasionally.
💡 Tip: For an even more authentic experience, this can be cooked over an open fire or on a braai (barbecue). - 10
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
💡 Tip: Gango is traditionally served with sadza (a thick maize meal porridge).
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The combination of meats can be varied based on preference and availability.
- ✓Adding a bay leaf during simmering can enhance the aroma.
- ✓For a spicier version, add a chopped chili pepper along with the onions and peppers.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like carrots or potatoes.
- Incorporate a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for added depth of flavor.