Nigerian-style Gwaramari

Ingredients

In the Nigerian adaptation of Gwaramari, the traditional Georgian dumplings are infused with Nigerian spices and filled with a mixture of minced beef and Nigerian seasonings. Additionally, the dish is served with a spicy tomato sauce, which adds a tangy element to the overall flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Gwaramari, so you can check it out.

• For the dough: For the dough:
• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 1/2 pound (225g) minced beef 1/2 pound (225g) minced beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Nigerian seasoning blend 1 teaspoon Nigerian seasoning blend
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• For the spicy tomato sauce: For the spicy tomato sauce:
• 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt to taste Salt to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cayenne pepper, ginger powder, and garlic powder for the dough.
2. 2.
   Gradually add water to the dry ingredients and knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, mix together the minced beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, Nigerian seasoning blend, salt, and pepper for the filling.
4. 4.
   Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a thin circle.
5. 5.
   Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle and fold it in half, sealing the edges by pressing them together.
6. 6.
   Steam the dumplings for about 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. 7.
   While the dumplings are steaming, prepare the spicy tomato sauce by heating a small amount of oil in a saucepan. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened. Add the tomato sauce, cayenne pepper, and salt. Simmer for a few minutes until the flavors meld together.
8. 8.
   Serve the Nigerian-style Gwaramari dumplings with the spicy tomato sauce on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Minced beef — Ensure that the beef is lean and finely minced for a tender filling.
• Nigerian seasoning blend — If you don't have access to a pre-made blend, you can create your own by combining equal parts of onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, and cayenne pepper.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier flavor, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in both the dough and the tomato sauce.
• You can substitute the minced beef with minced chicken or turkey for a lighter alternative.
• Serve the Gwaramari dumplings with a side of fresh salad to add a refreshing element to the meal.
• If you don't have a steamer, you can use a colander placed over a pot of boiling water as an alternative.
• Leftover Gwaramari can be refrigerated and reheated in a steamer or microwave for a quick and delicious snack.

Serving advice

Serve the Nigerian-style Gwaramari dumplings hot, accompanied by a bowl of spicy tomato sauce for dipping. Garnish with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley for added freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the steamed dumplings on a platter, ensuring they are neatly folded and sealed. Drizzle the spicy tomato sauce over the dumplings or serve it in a separate bowl for dipping. Sprinkle some chopped herbs on top for an appealing presentation.