Seswaa

Seswaa – tender Botswanan slow-cooked beef dish
Botswana
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Seswaa is a beloved traditional dish from Botswana, made with slow-cooked beef that is tender and flavorful. Often served at special occasions and gatherings, it represents the rich culinary heritage of the Tswana people. Typically enjoyed with pap or rice, Seswaa is a comforting meal that brings families together.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~450 kcal / serving

Ingredients

  • 1 kg beef chuck or brisket
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cup beef broth or water
  • 2 bay leaves

Instructions

Prepare the Beef

Season the beef with salt and pepper.

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add the beef and brown on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.

Cook the Base

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they start to break down.

Add Spices and Beef

Stir in the ground paprika, ground cumin, and ground coriander.

Return the browned beef to the pot.

Add the beef broth or water and bay leaves. Stir to combine.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil.

Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and can be easily shredded.

Shred the Beef

Remove the beef from the pot and shred it using two forks.

Return the shredded beef to the pot and stir to combine with the sauce.

Serve

Serve hot with traditional sides like pap (maize porridge) or rice.

Enjoy your meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Seswaa?

Seswaa is a traditional Botswana dish made from slow-cooked, shredded beef, typically seasoned and served with a sauce.

Where does Seswaa come from?

Seswaa originates from Botswana, where it is a staple in Tswana cuisine.

What are the main ingredients in Seswaa?

Key ingredients include beef chuck or brisket, vegetable oil, onion, garlic, tomatoes, paprika, cumin, and coriander.

How long does Seswaa take to make?

It takes approximately 145-210 minutes to make Seswaa.

What do you serve with Seswaa?

Seswaa is typically served with pap (maize porridge), rice, or steamed vegetables.