About
"Food is a gift that brings people together, a simple yet profound act of sharing that transcends language and differences." - Tayeb Salih
Goraasa be Dama is a comforting and flavorful dish from Sudan, known for its simplicity and rich taste. It’s a traditional meal that brings together soft, spongy flatbread called goraasa and a hearty meat stew, known as dama.
This dish has been enjoyed in Sudan for generations, reflecting the country’s love for bold flavors and filling meals.
The star of the dish is the goraasa, a thick, pancake-like bread made from wheat flour, water, and a pinch of salt. It’s cooked on a hot griddle until it’s golden and slightly crispy on the outside, yet soft and pillowy on the inside. This bread acts as both a side and a utensil, soaking up all the delicious juices from the stew.
Dama, the meat stew that accompanies the bread, is rich and aromatic. It’s typically made with tender chunks of beef or lamb, slow-cooked with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and a mix of spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. The stew is packed with flavor, thanks to the generous use of these warming spices that give it a unique depth.
Together, the combination of the fluffy goraasa and the savory dama creates a balanced meal. The bread absorbs the stew’s thick, spiced gravy, giving every bite a satisfying blend of textures and flavors. It’s a dish that feels like home—simple, hearty, and made to be shared with loved ones.
In Sudan, Goraasa be Dama is often served during family gatherings or special occasions, but it’s also enjoyed as a comforting everyday meal. The flavors are bold yet familiar, making it a favorite for anyone who loves rich, hearty dishes.
Serving & Tradition
Tang Yuan is typically eaten hot, either in a sweet ginger broth or plain with a drizzle of honey. Families gather to eat them while praying for happiness, family unity, and a prosperous year ahead. The roundness of Tang Yuan reflects the full moon, symbolizing harmony and reunion.
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INGREDIENTS
For the Goraasa (flatbread):
2 cups whole wheat flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 to 1.5 cups warm water
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking)
For the Dama (meat stew):
500g (1 lb) beef or lamb, cut into cubes
1 large onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
fresh chili pepper, minced (to your liking)
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 large tomatoes, chopped
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1.5 teaspoon ground cumin
1.5 teaspoon ground coriander
2 teaspoon curry powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cups water or beef broth
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
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Instructions
Make the Goraasa:
In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt and baking powder
Gradually add warm water, mixing until a smooth, thick pancake batter forms
Cover the bowl with a cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with vegetable oil.
Pour in your thick batter, making sure it isn't too thick and covers the pan nicely.
You'll see bubbles forming and once it doesn't stick to the pan, you can give it a flip.
Cook each flatbread in the hot pan for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden and cooked through. Set aside in a warm over.
Prepare the Dama (Meat Stew):
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped onions, peppers, chili peppers and garlic, sautéing until they’re soft and golden.
Add the beef or lamb and brown the meat on all sides.
Stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, coriander, curry powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes soften.
Add the water or beef broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the meat is tender and the sauce thickens.
Serve the Goraasa be Dama:
Place the freshly cooked goraasa on a plate.
Spoon the rich dama stew over the top or serve it on the side for dipping.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
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