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meat floss on a bowl
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5 from 1 vote

Meat Floss (Dambu Nama)

Meat Floss (Dambu Nama or Beef Floss) is a beloved Nigerian snack made from seasoned, dried meat shredded into soft, flavorful strands. It’s savory, spicy, and so tender it’s basically jerky’s melt-in-your-mouth cousin.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time1 hour 25 minutes
Course: Appetizers and side dishes
Cuisine: African, Nigerian
Diet: Gluten Free
Servings: 6
Calories: 475kcal
Author: Tayo Oredola

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Add the beef to a pot and add enough water to cover it.
    2 lbs beef
  • Add bouillon powder, chopped onions, black pepper and salt.
    1 tablespoon beef bouillon powder, ½ onions, 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon salt
  • Boil till the meat is pull apart tender (about 1 hr). Add more water as needed.
  • Take the meat out and shred using two forks. You can also use the pulse function of a food processor, or pound using a small mortar and pestle.
  • In a mixing bowl, add the shredded meat, suya spice, cayenne pepper and ginger powder, and mix.
    ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, 2-3 tablespoon suya spice, 1 teaspoon ginger powder
  • Heat some peanut oil in a pan on medium heat.
    2 tablespoon peanut oil
  • Add the shredded meat and lightly fry till the meat turns brown and is crumbly.

Notes

  • Use cuts like beef brisket, chuck, or shank for the best texture and flavor. These cuts contain enough connective tissue to create the desired texture needed for meat floss.
  • Let the beef cool slightly before shredding so that it's easier to handle and shred.
  • Make sure the beef is shredded consistently for uniform texture and drying.
  • Keep an eye on the beef to ensure it doesn't over-dry when cooking. It should be crispy but not burnt.
Recipe Variations
  • Spicy Beef Meat Floss: Add extra chili flakes or cayenne pepper for even more heat.
  • Garlic and Herb Beef Meat Floss: Mix in minced garlic, garlic powder, and dried herbs like thyme or rosemary.
  • Asian-Inspired Beef Meat Floss: Use soy sauce, oyster sauce, five-spice powder, and a touch of sesame oil.
  • Curry Beef Meat Floss: Add curry powder or paste to the seasoning mix.
  • Barbecue Beef Meat Floss: Use sugar-free barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, and a touch of liquid smoke.

Nutrition

Calories: 475kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 37g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 15g | Trans Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 107mg | Sodium: 709mg | Potassium: 530mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 0.2g | Vitamin A: 2IU | Vitamin C: 0.002mg | Calcium: 30mg | Iron: 3mg