Sudanese Dama be Lahm (Beef Stew)
Dama be Lahm is a hearty and flavorful Sudanese beef stew, characterized by its rich onion and tomato base, infused with aromatic spices. It's traditionally served with flatbreads like Kisra or Gorassa, making it a comforting and satisfying meal.

🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Beef(cut into cubes)
- 3 large Onions(finely chopped)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp Cumin powder
- 1 tbsp Coriander powder
- 0.5 tbsp Curry powder
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1 small Cinnamon stick
- 3 pods Cardamom pods
- 2 cups Water or beef broth
- 1 tsp Salt(to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(to taste)
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened and golden brown, about 8-10 minutes.
- 2
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Add the cubed beef to the pot and brown it on all sides.
- 4
Stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, coriander, curry powder, paprika, cinnamon stick, and cardamom pods. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften.
- 5
Pour in the water or beef broth, and season with salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- 6
Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally.
- 7
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- 8
Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley. Dama be Lahm is traditionally served with Kisra, Gorassa, rice, or bread.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can use beef broth instead of water.
- ✓Adjust the amount of spices to your personal preference.
- ✓Ensure the stew is simmered long enough for the beef to become tender.
🔄 Variations
- Add diced potatoes or carrots to the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- For a spicier version, add a chopped chili pepper along with the onions.