Sarakas

Sarakas is a term that can refer to several things, most notably a type of traditional Sudanese bread and a historical military tactic.

In Sudanese cuisine, Sarakas (also spelled Sarraka) is a leavened flatbread, typically made from millet flour. It is a staple food in many parts of Sudan, often served with stews and other savory dishes. The preparation involves fermenting the dough, which gives it a distinctive tangy flavor and a slightly chewy texture. It is usually cooked on a hot, flat surface, similar to how other flatbreads are made. Sarakas is an important part of Sudanese culinary heritage, reflecting the country's agricultural practices and traditional cooking methods.

Historically, Sarakas was also a military term, particularly associated with the Mahdist War in Sudan in the late 19th century. It referred to a defensive formation used by Mahdist forces, often composed of a circle or crescent of men armed with rifles and supported by cavalry. This tactic was designed to create a strong defensive perimeter, allowing soldiers to fire in all directions and repel enemy attacks. The effectiveness of the Sarakas formation varied depending on the circumstances and the opposing forces, but it was a notable feature of Mahdist warfare.