Guinea-Bissauan-style Beef Involtini

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Italian beef rolls are transformed into a Guinea-Bissauan delight by incorporating local ingredients and flavors. The original recipe typically uses ingredients such as prosciutto, cheese, and herbs like basil and parsley. However, in this Guinea-Bissauan version, we replace these ingredients with cassava leaves, palm oil, and ground peanuts, which are commonly used in the local cuisine. The sauce is also modified to include traditional Guinea-Bissauan spices and flavors, giving the dish a distinct taste that reflects the culinary heritage of Guinea-Bissau. We alse have the original recipe for Involtini di manzo, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) beef slices, thinly cut 500g (1.1 lb) beef slices, thinly cut
• 200g (7 oz) cassava leaves, blanched and finely chopped 200g (7 oz) cassava leaves, blanched and finely chopped
• 1/4 cup ground peanuts 1/4 cup ground peanuts
• 2 tablespoons palm oil 2 tablespoons palm oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 cup tomato sauce 1 cup tomato sauce
• Salt to taste Salt to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the chopped cassava leaves, ground peanuts, palm oil, onion, garlic, ginger, coriander, paprika, and black pepper. Mix well to form a thick paste.
2. 2.
   Lay the beef slices flat and spread a thin layer of the cassava leaf mixture onto each slice.
3. 3.
   Roll up the beef slices tightly, securing them with toothpicks if necessary.
4. 4.
   Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of palm oil.
5. 5.
   Place the beef rolls in the skillet and cook until browned on all sides.
6. 6.
   Pour in the tomato sauce and season with salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes or until the beef is tender.
7. 7.
   Remove the toothpicks before serving.
8. 8.
   Serve the Guinea-Bissauan-style Beef Involtini hot with the tomato sauce spooned over the top.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cassava leaves — Make sure to blanch the cassava leaves before chopping them to remove any bitterness and enhance their flavor.
• Palm oil — Use unrefined palm oil for an authentic Guinea-Bissauan taste. If unavailable, you can substitute with another vegetable oil.
• Ground peanuts — Roast the peanuts before grinding them to enhance their nutty flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cassava leaf mixture.
• For a richer sauce, you can add a splash of coconut milk to the tomato sauce.
• Serve the Beef Involtini with a side of steamed rice or couscous to complete the meal.
• If cassava leaves are not available, you can substitute with spinach or collard greens.
• Experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the flavors to your liking.

Serving advice

Serve the Guinea-Bissauan-style Beef Involtini as a main course accompanied by a generous spoonful of the tomato sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley for added freshness and color.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Beef Involtini on a platter, placing them neatly side by side. Drizzle some of the tomato sauce over the rolls and sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs. Serve with a vibrant salad or steamed vegetables to create an appealing and balanced plate.