Centrafrican Spiced Meat Pies

Ingredients

The Centrafrican Spiced Meat Pies are adapted from the Malaysian dish Karipap. While the original Karipap uses a combination of Malaysian spices and flavors, the Centrafrican version incorporates a unique blend of Centrafrican spices such as cumin, coriander, and paprika. Additionally, the pastry used in the Centrafrican version is slightly different, resulting in a crispier crust. We alse have the original recipe for Karipap, so you can check it out.

• 250g (8.8 oz) ground beef 250g (8.8 oz) ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 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
• 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 18g (7g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 26g (1g sugar)
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. 3.
   Stir in the cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the spices to infuse into the meat. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. 4.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5. 5.
   Gradually add the cold water to the flour mixture, mixing until the dough comes together. Knead the dough lightly until it forms a smooth ball.
6. 6.
   Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a thin circle.
7. 7.
   Place a spoonful of the meat filling onto one half of each dough circle. Fold the other half over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal the pies.
8. 8.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. 9.
   Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pies are golden brown and crispy.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef — Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option. You can also substitute it with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter alternative.
• Cumin, coriander, and paprika — Toasting the spices before adding them to the meat filling will enhance their flavors.
• All-purpose flour — Sift the flour before using it to ensure a smoother dough.
• Butter — Make sure the butter is cold and cubed to achieve a flaky pastry.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat filling.
• Serve the Centrafrican Spiced Meat Pies with a side of hot sauce or chutney for extra flavor.
• Make a larger batch of the pies and freeze them for later use. Simply reheat in the oven for a quick and convenient snack.
• Experiment with different fillings such as lamb, pork, or a vegetarian option with mushrooms and vegetables.
• Brush the pastry with an egg wash before baking to achieve a shiny and golden crust.

Serving advice

Serve the Centrafrican Spiced Meat Pies warm as a snack or appetizer. They can also be enjoyed as a main course alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Centrafrican Spiced Meat Pies on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley. Serve them with a side of dipping sauce for an attractive and appetizing presentation.