Akotonshi - Ghanaian Stuffed Yam Balls

Ingredients

• 2 large yams (about 800g / 1.7 lbs), peeled and cubed 2 large yams (about 800g / 1.7 lbs), peeled and cubed
• 250g (8.8 oz) ground meat (beef or chicken) 250g (8.8 oz) ground meat (beef or chicken)
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon curry powder 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat) 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• Breadcrumbs or flour, for coating Breadcrumbs or flour, for coating

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 5g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Boil the cubed yams in salted water until tender. Drain and mash until smooth.
2. 2.
   In a separate pan, heat some oil and sauté the onions, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.
3. 3.
   Add the ground meat to the pan and cook until browned. Season with paprika, curry powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt.
4. 4.
   Remove the meat mixture from heat and let it cool slightly.
5. 5.
   Take a small portion of mashed yam and flatten it in your palm. Place a spoonful of the meat mixture in the center and shape the yam around it, forming a ball.
6. 6.
   Roll the yam ball in breadcrumbs or flour, ensuring it is evenly coated.
7. 7.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer. Fry the yam balls in batches until golden brown and crispy.
8. 8.
   Remove the fried yam balls from the oil and drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
9. 9.
   Serve hot as a snack or appetizer.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Yam — Make sure to boil the yam until it is tender enough to mash easily. Overcooking may result in a watery consistency.
• Ground meat — Choose lean ground meat for a healthier option. You can also substitute with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter alternative.
• Breadcrumbs or flour — Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or flour if you have dietary restrictions.

Tips & Tricks

• To make the yam balls extra crispy, you can double-coat them by dipping them in beaten egg before rolling them in breadcrumbs or flour.
• Experiment with different fillings such as vegetables, cheese, or even fish to create your own unique variations.
• Serve Akotonshi with a spicy dipping sauce or a side of fresh salad for a complete meal.

Serving advice

Serve Akotonshi as a snack or appetizer at parties or gatherings. They can also be enjoyed as a main course with a side of salad or steamed vegetables.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden Akotonshi balls on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley. Serve with a side of dipping sauce for an inviting presentation.