The country of Chad is located in Central Africa and has a rich culinary tradition. One popular dish in Chad is called “Dama,” a hearty stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices. Here’s a typical recipe for Dama:

Ingredients:

• 1 kg (2.2 lbs) meat (beef, lamb, or goat), cut into cubes
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• 3 tomatoes, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 eggplant, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Salt to taste
• Water, as needed

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and sauté until the onions become translucent.
2. Add the meat to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Stir in the tomato paste, ginger, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to coat the meat with the spices.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and enough water to cover the meat. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the meat becomes tender.
5. Add the carrots, potatoes, and eggplant to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are cooked through.
6. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt or spices according to your preference.
7. Remove the pot from the heat and let the Dama stew rest for a few minutes before serving.

Dama is typically served hot and can be enjoyed with steamed rice, couscous, or flatbread.