Saharan Spiced Biscuits with Savory Gravy

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the original American Biscuits 'n' Gravy is transformed into a Saharan-inspired dish by incorporating traditional Saharan spices and ingredients. The biscuits are infused with a blend of Saharan spices, adding a unique flavor profile to the dish. The gravy is made with traditional Saharan ingredients, giving it a distinct taste and texture that sets it apart from the original version. We alse have the original recipe for Biscuits ’n’ Gravy, so you can check it out.

• For the Saharan Spiced Biscuits: For the Saharan Spiced Biscuits:
• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 3/4 cup (180ml) milk 3/4 cup (180ml) milk
• For the Savory Gravy: For the Savory Gravy:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional, for heat) 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (480ml) vegetable broth 2 cups (480ml) vegetable broth
• 1 cup (240ml) milk 1 cup (240ml) milk
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 420 kcal / 1760 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 6g
• Protein: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, and salt for the Saharan spiced biscuits.
3. 3.
   Add the cold cubed butter to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. 4.
   Gradually pour in the milk while stirring the mixture until a soft dough forms.
5. 5.
   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together.
6. 6.
   Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 2 cm (3/4 inch) and use a round biscuit cutter to cut out biscuits.
7. 7.
   Place the biscuits onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. 8.
   While the biscuits are baking, prepare the savory gravy. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
9. 9.
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.
10. 10.
    In a small bowl, mix together the ground paprika, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and ground cayenne pepper (if using).
11. 11.
    Sprinkle the spice mixture over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring well to coat them.
12. 12.
    Add the all-purpose flour to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
13. 13.
    Gradually pour in the vegetable broth and milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens.
14. 14.
    Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste, and simmer for 5-7 minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.
15. 15.
    Once the biscuits are baked, serve them warm with the savory Saharan gravy.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground cumin — Toast the cumin seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant. Then grind them using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder for the freshest flavor.
• Ground coriander — Similarly, toast coriander seeds before grinding them for a more intense aroma and flavor.
• Ground turmeric — Be cautious while handling turmeric as it can stain surfaces and clothing. Use gloves or wash your hands immediately after handling.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier gravy, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Serve the biscuits and gravy with a side of sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
• If you prefer a smoother gravy, use an immersion blender to blend the sautéed onions and garlic before adding the flour and liquids.
• Experiment with different Saharan spices like cardamom or nutmeg to customize the flavor of the biscuits.
• Leftover biscuits can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Saharan Spiced Biscuits with Savory Gravy hot, allowing the flavors to meld together. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the biscuits on a platter and pour the savory gravy over them, allowing it to cascade down the sides. Sprinkle a pinch of ground cumin or paprika on top for an extra touch of Saharan flair.