Nigerian Baklava

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional sweet filling of Gaziantep baklavası is replaced with a savory mixture of ground beef and spices. The Nigerian Baklava also incorporates West African flavors by adding ingredients like ginger, garlic, and cayenne pepper to enhance the taste profile. This unique twist transforms the dessert into a savory delight, perfect for those who prefer savory dishes or want to explore the flavors of Nigerian cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Gaziantep baklavası, so you can check it out.

• 1 package of phyllo pastry sheets (12 sheets) 1 package of phyllo pastry sheets (12 sheets)
• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup melted butter 1/4 cup melted butter

Nutrition

• Calories: 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat: 28g (Saturated Fat: 10g)
• Carbohydrates: 25g (Sugars: 2g)
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onions, bell pepper, garlic, and ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned and the vegetables are softened.
3. 3.
   Add the ginger powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. 4.
   Grease a baking dish with melted butter.
5. 5.
   Place a sheet of phyllo pastry in the baking dish and brush it with melted butter. Repeat this process, layering 6 sheets of phyllo pastry and brushing each sheet with melted butter.
6. 6.
   Spread the ground beef mixture evenly over the top layer of phyllo pastry.
7. 7.
   Layer the remaining 6 sheets of phyllo pastry on top of the ground beef mixture, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
8. 8.
   Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes.
9. 9.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Phyllo pastry — Handle the phyllo pastry sheets gently to prevent tearing. Keep them covered with a damp cloth while working to prevent them from drying out.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper according to your preference.
• Serve the Nigerian Baklava with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad to balance the flavors.
• Experiment with different fillings, such as minced chicken or lamb, to create your own unique variations.
• Make sure to let the baklava cool slightly before cutting into it to allow the layers to set.

Serving advice

Serve the Nigerian Baklava warm as a main dish or as part of a larger Nigerian feast. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for an added touch of freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cut pieces of Nigerian Baklava on a platter, allowing the layers to be visible. Sprinkle some additional cayenne pepper or paprika on top for a pop of color.