Dambu Nama
Dambu Nama is a flavorful and hearty dish from Niger, often prepared with shredded or minced meat (typically beef or lamb) that is stir-fried with onions, tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices. It's a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Beef or Lamb(thinly sliced or minced)
- 2 medium Onions(chopped)
- 3 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable Oil
- 2 tbsp Tomato Paste
- 1 tsp Cumin Powder
- 1 tsp Coriander Powder
- 0.5 tsp Turmeric Powder
- 0.5 tsp Chili Powder(or to taste)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
- 0.25 cup Fresh Cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 2
Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Add the thinly sliced or minced meat to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides.
- 4
Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.
- 5
Add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- 6
Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally.
- 7
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, marinate the meat for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- ✓Adjust the chili powder to your preferred level of spiciness.
- ✓This dish pairs well with rice, couscous, or millet.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Incorporate a splash of broth or water if the sauce becomes too dry during simmering.