Indian Chinese Alkubus

Ingredients

In the original Moroccan Alkubus, the filling typically consists of minced meat, onions, and a blend of Moroccan spices. However, in this Indian Chinese adaptation, the filling is vegetarian, consisting of stir-fried vegetables seasoned with Indian spices. The Indian Chinese Alkubus also incorporates the bold and spicy flavors commonly found in Indian Chinese cuisine, adding an extra kick to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Alkubus, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup (200g) mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, cabbage, etc.), finely chopped 1 cup (200g) mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, cabbage, etc.), finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup
• 1 tablespoon chili sauce 1 tablespoon chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon vinegar 1 tablespoon vinegar
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Oil, for deep frying Oil, for deep frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 3g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, turmeric powder, chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and black pepper. Gradually add water and knead to form a smooth dough. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté for a minute until fragrant.
3. 3.
   Add the chopped vegetables to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they are slightly tender.
4. 4.
   In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, tomato ketchup, chili sauce, and vinegar. Pour this sauce over the stir-fried vegetables and mix well. Cook for another 2 minutes until the vegetables are coated with the sauce. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
5. 5.
   Divide the dough into small balls and roll each ball into a thin circle.
6. 6.
   Place a spoonful of the vegetable filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
7. 7.
   Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer. Deep fry the Alkubus in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and drain on a paper towel.
8. 8.
   Garnish the Indian Chinese Alkubus with fresh cilantro and serve hot with a tangy dipping sauce.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Vegetable filling — Ensure that the vegetables are finely chopped to ensure even cooking and easy filling of the Alkubus.
• All-purpose flour — Knead the dough well to achieve a smooth and elastic texture, which will result in crispy Alkubus.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add chopped green chilies or chili flakes to the vegetable filling.
• Serve the Alkubus immediately after frying to enjoy the crispy texture.
• Experiment with different dipping sauces like sweet and sour sauce or chili garlic sauce for variety.
• If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the Alkubus in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

Serving advice

Serve the Indian Chinese Alkubus as an appetizer or snack. Arrange them on a platter with the tangy dipping sauce on the side. Garnish with fresh cilantro for an added burst of flavor.

Presentation advice

Arrange the crispy Alkubus on a decorative serving platter, garnished with sprigs of fresh cilantro. Serve with the dipping sauce in a small bowl or ramekin placed in the center of the platter. This visually appealing presentation will entice your guests to indulge in this fusion delight.