Bassi Salte Recipe – Senegal's Hearty Delight

Name: Bassi Salte
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 3-5 servings
Cuisine: Senegal
Ingredients: beef; beef cut into cubes; black pepper; cabbage; carrot; cilantro for garnish; cloves garlic; coriander; cumin; g lamb; green beans trimmed; millet couscous; onions; parsley; salt; sweet potato; tomato paste; tomatoes; turmeric; vegetable broth; vegetable oil; water

Bassi Salte is a traditional Senegalese dish that celebrates the rich flavors of the region. Often enjoyed during family gatherings and special occasions, it features tender meat and hearty vegetables, providing a comforting meal. This dish showcases the vibrant culinary heritage of Senegal, where communal dining is a cherished tradition.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~420 kcal / serving

Ingredients

2 cups millet couscous
1 lb (450 g) lamb or beef, cut into cubes
2 large onions, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 large tomatoes, chopped
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
1 large sweet potato, peeled and chopped
1 cup cabbage, chopped
1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 cups beef or vegetable broth
1 cup water
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Millet Couscous

In a large bowl, rinse the millet couscous under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Meat

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

Add the lamb or beef cubes and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meat and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add Spices and Tomatoes

Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, ground black pepper, and salt. Cook for another 2 minutes.

Add the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook until the tomatoes break down and the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Return the browned meat to the pot.

Add the chopped carrot, sweet potato, cabbage, and green beans.

Pour in the beef or vegetable broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the meat and vegetables are tender.

Steam the Millet Couscous

In a steamer or a heatproof bowl that fits over the pot, steam the millet couscous over the simmering stew for about 15-20 minutes, or until the couscous is tender and fluffy.

Serve

Fluff the millet couscous with a fork and transfer it to a large serving platter.

Arrange the meat and vegetables over the couscous.

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bassi Salte?

Bassi Salte is a flavorful Senegalese dish made with meat, vegetables, and millet couscous, simmered to perfection.

Where does Bassi Salte come from?

Bassi Salte hails from Senegal, where it is a popular dish reflecting the country's rich culinary culture.

What are the main ingredients in Bassi Salte?

The key ingredients include millet couscous, lamb or beef, onions, garlic, tomatoes, carrot, and sweet potato.

How long does Bassi Salte take to make?

Bassi Salte takes approximately 70-90 minutes to prepare and cook.

What do you serve with Bassi Salte?

Bassi Salte is typically served with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables, and can be accompanied by spicy sauce.

Bassi Salte