Traditional Senegalese Dibi Recipe

Ingredients

1 kg of lamb or mutton, cut into chunks
4 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons of vinegar
1 tablespoon of black pepper
2 tablespoons of hot pepper paste
1 tablespoon of salt
2 cubes of beef bouillon
1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
2 large onions, chopped
1 bunch of parsley, chopped for garnish
1 lemon, cut into wedges for garnish
2 baguettes, to serve

Steps and instructions

Place the lamb or mutton chunks in a large bowl.
In a separate bowl, combine the minced garlic, Dijon mustard, vinegar, black pepper, hot pepper paste, salt, and beef bouillon cubes. Mix until the ingredients are well blended.
Pour this marinade over the lamb or mutton chunks. Coat the meat well with the marinade. Store it in the refrigerator and let it marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight for the best results.
Preheat your grill or barbecue to a medium heat.
Thread the marinated meat onto skewers.
Grill the skewers for about 15-20 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they are cooked evenly.
While the meat is grilling, heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they become soft and translucent.
Place the grilled meat on a serving plate, then top with the cooked onions.
Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges.
Serve the Dibi hot with baguette on the side for dipping in the juices.

Tools for making

Grill or barbecue - To cook the marinated meat skewers
Skewers - To thread the marinated meat for grilling
Large bowl - For marinating the lamb or mutton chunks
Separate bowl - For mixing the marinade ingredients
Pan - To cook the onions for topping
Knife - For chopping the onions and parsley
Cutting board - To chop the onions and parsley
Tongs - To handle the meat skewers while grilling
Serving plate - To present the grilled meat and onions
Lemon squeezer - To extract the juice from the lemon wedges for garnish

Recipe variations

Substitute the lamb or mutton with beef or chicken.
Add different spices or herbs to the marinade, such as paprika, cumin, or thyme, to customize the flavor.
For a spicy twist, add chopped chili peppers or hot sauce to the marinade.
Marinate the meat in yogurt or buttermilk for a tenderizing effect.
Include vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes on the skewers for added color and flavor.
Serve the Dibi with a side of couscous or rice instead of baguettes.
For a vegetarian option, marinate and grill tofu or paneer cheese instead of meat.
Experiment with different types of mustard, such as whole grain or spicy mustard.
Try grilling the meat on charcoal for a smoky flavor.
For a tangy twist, squeeze fresh lime juice over the grilled meat before serving.

Recipe overview

Welcome to our Dibi recipe page! If you're a fan of flavor-packed, grilled meats, you're in for a treat. Dibi is a popular street food dish in West Africa, notably in Senegal. It's traditionally made with lamb or mutton cut into chunks, marinated in a vibrant mix of garlic, Dijon mustard, vinegar, and hot pepper paste, among other ingredients. The marinated meat is then grilled to perfection - its exterior beautifully charred while the inside remains tender and juicy. To add another layer of flavor, the grilled chunks are topped with sauteed onions and garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. The dish is usually served with a baguette, which is perfect for dipping into the rich, meaty juices. This recipe is straightforward and very easy to follow. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey right from your kitchen, and experience the bold flavors of Senegal with this Dibi recipe!

Common questions

Can I use a different type of meat instead of lamb or mutton? Yes, you can substitute lamb or mutton with beef or chicken if you prefer.
How long should I marinate the meat? For the best flavor, it is recommended to marinate the meat for at least 2 hours. However, marinating overnight will result in even more flavorful and tender meat.
Can I make this recipe without a grill? If you don't have a grill, you can also cook the meat on a stovetop grill pan or even in the oven using the broiler setting. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I skip the hot pepper paste if I don't like spicy food? Yes, you can omit the hot pepper paste if you prefer a milder flavor. The dish will still be delicious.
What can I serve with Dibi? Dibi is traditionally served with baguette, which is used to soak up the flavorful juices. You can also serve it with rice or couscous and a side salad for a complete meal.

Serving dishes and utensils

Grill or Barbecue - Used to grill the marinated meat skewers.
Skewers - Used to thread the marinated meat for grilling.
Large Bowl - Used to marinate the lamb or mutton chunks.
Separate Bowl - Used to mix the marinade ingredients.
Pan - Used to cook the chopped onions for topping.
Barbecue Tongs - Used to flip and handle the meat skewers while grilling.
Knife - Used for chopping the parsley and cutting the lemon into wedges.
Serving Plate - Used to present the grilled meat and toppings.
Cutting Board - Used for chopping the parsley and cutting the lemon.

Origin stories

Dibi is a popular street food that originates from Senegal, West Africa, specifically from the country's populous region of Dakar. Traditionally, it is a late-night snack, often enjoyed after a lively evening of music and dance. It's cooked over an open fire or on a grill, which gives it its unique, smoky flavor. Dibi is often served in Senegalese "Fast-Food" joints where it's presented on paper, paired with fresh onions and mustard, and devoured using nothing but your hands and bread. This dish has earned its place in the heart of Senegalese cuisine, not just for its delightful taste but also for the sense of community it fosters, as it's best enjoyed when shared with friends and family.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.