Benechin Kunkujang (Gambian Seasoned Rice and Lamb)
Benechin Kunkujang or thiebou yap is a Senegalese dish popular in Gambia, known for its special blend of spices from Kunkujang. It is a variation of benachin, a one-pot rice dish commonly found in Gambia and other West African countries. The dish features tender cubes of lamb meat, aromatic vegetables, and a flavorful combination of spices. It pairs well with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables.
Ingredients
- 2 cups long-grain rice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb lamb meat, cut into cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (adjust according to your spice preference)
- Salt to taste
- 4 cups water or broth
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Steps
- Rinse long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until translucent.
- Add lamb cubes. Cook until browned on all sides.
- Stir in diced red and green bell peppers. Cook a few minutes until they start to soften.
- Add chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir well.
- Sprinkle in ground ginger, black pepper, coriander, paprika, cayenne pepper and salt. Mix to coat the meat and vegetables.
- Pour in water or broth. Bring to a boil.
- Add the rinsed rice. Stir well. Reduce heat to low.
- Cover. Simmer 20–25 minutes until the rice is cooked and the liquid absorbed. Do not open the lid.
- Remove from heat. Sit covered 5–10 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork. Garnish with parsley or cilantro. Serve hot.
Source. Adapted from “Cookbook:Benechin Kunkujang (Gambian Seasoned Rice and Lamb)” by Wikibooks contributors, revision of 2025-06-19, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Changes. Steps rewritten into short commands. Introduction shortened. Wiki formatting removed. This adapted recipe is shared under CC BY-SA 4.0.






