Nyama Choma Style Beef Ribs
Inspired by the popular East African 'nyama choma' (grilled meat) tradition, these beef ribs are marinated in a flavorful blend of spices and then slow-cooked or grilled to tender perfection. While 'nyama choma' is often grilled over open flames, this recipe adapts it for oven baking or grilling, making it accessible for home cooks.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 kg Beef ribs (short ribs or spare ribs)
- 2 large Onions(thinly sliced)
- 5 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 3 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 2 tsp Curry powder
- 1 tsp Cumin powder
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 1 tsp Paprika
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1 cup Water or beef broth
- for garnish Optional: Fresh cilantro or parsley
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 160°C (325°F) or prepare your grill for indirect heat.
- 2
In a large bowl, combine the beef ribs with salt, black pepper, curry powder, cumin, coriander, and paprika. Rub the spices all over the ribs, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
- 3
Heat the vegetable oil in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef ribs on all sides until nicely browned. Remove the ribs and set aside.
- 4
Add the sliced onions to the same pot and sauté until softened and lightly golden, about 8-10 minutes.
- 5
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 6
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for about 5 minutes until they begin to break down.
- 7
Return the seared beef ribs to the pot. Pour in the water or beef broth. Bring the liquid to a simmer.
- 8
Cover the pot tightly with a lid or foil and transfer to the preheated oven. Cook for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the meat is very tender and falling off the bone.
💡 Tip: Check periodically and add a little more liquid if it seems to be drying out. - 9
If you prefer a slightly charred or 'nyama choma' finish, remove the lid for the last 20-30 minutes of cooking, or transfer the ribs to a hot grill for a few minutes per side.
💡 Tip: Be careful not to burn the ribs. - 10
Remove the ribs from the pot. If desired, you can reduce the cooking liquid on the stovetop to create a thicker sauce to pour over the ribs. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For extra flavor, you can add a splash of lemon juice or a tablespoon of tomato paste to the sauce.
- ✓Different cuts of beef can be used, but cooking times may vary.
- ✓The marinade can be enhanced with a bit of chili for a spicier kick.
🔄 Variations
- Marinate the ribs overnight for a deeper flavor.
- Add vegetables like potatoes or carrots to the pot during the last hour of braising.
- Grill the ribs over charcoal for an authentic smoky flavor.