Sudanese Yogurt Stew with Dumplings
Mullah Roba with Asida
A unique and comforting dish featuring a creamy, tangy yogurt-based stew (Mullah Roba) served with Asida, a traditional Sudanese porridge made from sorghum or millet flour. This dish is often prepared for special occasions and during Ramadan.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Lamb or Beef(cut into small pieces)
- 4 cups Yogurt(full-fat, plain)
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 tbsp Rice flour
- 2 tbsp All-purpose flour
- 1 tsp White peppercorns(lightly crushed)
- 1-2 Green chilies(optional, to taste)
- to taste Salt
- 1 tbsp Ghee or Butter(for serving)
- 2 cups Sorghum flour or Millet flour(for Asida)
- approx. 4-5 cups Water(for Asida)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a pot, brown the meat pieces in a little oil or ghee. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and crushed white peppercorns, cooking for another minute.
- 2
In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, rice flour, and all-purpose flour until smooth. This mixture will act as a thickener for the stew.
- 3
Gradually add the yogurt mixture to the pot with the meat, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add salt and green chilies (if using). Bring the stew to a gentle simmer over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent it from curdling or sticking.
- 4
Simmer the Mullah Roba for about 45-60 minutes, or until the meat is tender and the stew has thickened to a creamy consistency. Stir occasionally.
- 5
While the stew simmers, prepare the Asida. Bring about 4-5 cups of water to a rolling boil in a separate pot. Gradually add the sorghum or millet flour, whisking vigorously to create a smooth, thick porridge. Continue to cook, stirring constantly with a sturdy spoon or whisk, for about 10-15 minutes until the Asida is thick and well-cooked. It should pull away from the sides of the pot.
- 6
To serve, traditionally, a well is made in the center of the Asida in a serving bowl. Ladle the hot Mullah Roba into the well and around the Asida. Drizzle with melted ghee or butter.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓To prevent the yogurt from curdling, ensure you stir constantly and maintain a low simmer.
- ✓The consistency of the Asida can be adjusted by adding more flour for a thicker porridge or more water for a thinner one.
- ✓Some variations of Mullah Roba use a base of cooked meat stock before adding the yogurt mixture.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and use a flavorful vegetable stock as the base for the stew.
- Some recipes add a touch of nigella seeds for extra flavor.