Savory Cornmeal Pancakes with Spicy Tomato Sauce

Ingredients

In the original Slovenian dish, Ajdovi žganci, buckwheat flour is used to make the pancakes. However, in this adapted Cameroonian version, we substitute buckwheat flour with cornmeal to give the pancakes a unique texture and flavor. Additionally, the traditional Slovenian dish is typically served with a savory meat sauce, while our Cameroonian adaptation features a spicy tomato sauce to add a touch of African flair. We alse have the original recipe for Ajdovi žganci, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) cornmeal 2 cups (240g) cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups (470ml) water 2 cups (470ml) water
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste) 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 65g, 5g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal and salt. Gradually add water while stirring until a thick batter forms.
2. 2.
   Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and brush with vegetable oil. Pour a ladleful of the batter onto the pan and spread it into a thin pancake.
3. 3.
   Cook the pancake for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter.
4. 4.
   In a separate pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
5. 5.
   Add the diced tomatoes, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the pan. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. 6.
   Serve the cornmeal pancakes with the spicy tomato sauce and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cornmeal — Make sure to use fine cornmeal for a smoother texture in the pancakes.
• Diced tomatoes — If fresh tomatoes are available, you can dice them and use them instead of canned tomatoes for a fresher flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier sauce, increase the amount of cayenne pepper according to your preference.
• Serve the pancakes and sauce with a side of fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Leftover pancakes can be reheated in a toaster or oven for a quick and delicious breakfast.

Serving advice

Serve the cornmeal pancakes with the spicy tomato sauce on top, garnished with fresh cilantro. Accompany the dish with a side of salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the pancakes on a plate, slightly overlapping each other. Pour the spicy tomato sauce over the pancakes, allowing it to drizzle down the sides. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color.