Mauritanian Touffé
About Mauritanian Touffé
Mauritanian Touffé is a traditional dish that hails from the rich culinary heritage of Mauritania. Known for its savory flavors and aromatic spices, Touffé has been passed down through generations, embodying the essence of Mauritanian culture. This recipe typically features a combination of tender lamb or beef, seasonal vegetables, and aromatic spices slow-cooked together to create a hearty and satisfying meal. Often enjoyed during family gatherings and special celebrations, Touffé is a testament to the communal spirit of Mauritanian cuisine.
Ingredients
- Lamb or beef - 1 kg, cut into cubes
- Onion - 2 large, chopped
- Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
- Cumin - 1 tablespoon
- Coriander - 1 tablespoon
- Vegetable oil - 3 tablespoons
- Potatoes - 3 large, peeled and cubed
- Carrots - 3, sliced
- Tomatoes - 3 large, diced
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Chicken broth - 500 ml
- Water - as needed
Preparation
Begin by preparing the lamb or beef. Trim any excess fat and cut the meat into 1-inch cubes. Season the meat generously with salt and pepper and let it sit while you prepare the rest of the ingredients. Chop the onion and garlic, and prepare the potatoes and carrots by peeling and cutting them into desired sizes. Dice the tomatoes and set everything aside.
Cooking Process
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the lamb or beef cubes and brown them on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Be sure not to overcrowd the pot; work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Remove the browned meat from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the cumin and coriander to the pot and stir for another minute until the spices are fragrant.
- Return the browned meat to the pot, along with the potatoes, carrots, and tomatoes. Pour in the chicken broth, adding enough water to ensure all ingredients are covered.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 1 to 2 hours until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded. Ensure to check every 15-20 minutes, stirring and adding more water if necessary to prevent drying out.
- Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed.
How to Enjoy Mauritanian Touffé
Mauritanian Touffé is best enjoyed family-style, served directly from the pot or a large serving dish. Accompany the hearty stew with warm crusty bread or steamed couscous to soak up the rich, savory sauce. Traditionally, the meal is shared communally, with everyone gathering around the table, savoring each mouthful while sharing stories and laughter. Pair the dish with a light, refreshing salad to balance the rich flavors, and follow it with sweet mint tea to complete the authentic Mauritanian dining experience.
Remember to set a cooking timer to manage your time effectively while preparing this delightful dish.