African-inspired Spiced Dumplings

Ingredients

In this African adaptation of Kasnudeln, we incorporate the vibrant flavors and ingredients of African cuisine. The original Austrian dish typically features a filling of cheese and potatoes, while our African-inspired version uses a combination of ground meat or vegetables with traditional African spices. The sauce is also modified to include African flavors, adding an extra layer of complexity to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Kasnudeln, so you can check it out.

• For the dumplings: For the dumplings:
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 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 ground paprika 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 1 pound (450g) ground meat or vegetables of your choice 1 pound (450g) ground meat or vegetables of your choice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 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 chili powder (adjust to taste) 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• For the sauce: For the sauce:
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 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 chili powder (adjust to taste) 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 15g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, salt, and black pepper for the dumpling dough.
2. 2.
   Gradually add water and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for a few minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In the meantime, prepare the filling by heating a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until fragrant.
4. 4.
   Add the ground meat or vegetables to the skillet and cook until browned. Stir in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another few minutes until the flavors meld together. Remove from heat and let it cool.
5. 5.
   Roll out the dough on a floured surface until it is about 1/8 inch thick. Cut out circles using a round cookie cutter or a glass.
6. 6.
   Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling, pressing the edges together to seal the dumplings.
7. 7.
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the dumplings into the boiling water and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
8. 8.
   To prepare the sauce, heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until softened.
9. 9.
   Stir in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook for a minute until fragrant.
10. 10.
    Pour in the coconut milk and simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt to taste.
11. 11.
    Serve the spiced dumplings with the aromatic sauce, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground meat or vegetables — Ensure that the ground meat is cooked thoroughly before using it as a filling. If using vegetables, make sure they are finely chopped or grated to ensure even cooking and distribution within the dumplings.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier flavor, increase the amount of chili powder in both the filling and the sauce.
• Experiment with different fillings such as minced chicken, lamb, or a combination of vegetables for a vegetarian option.
• Serve the dumplings with a side of African-inspired pickles or chutney for an extra burst of flavor.
• Make a double batch of the dumplings and freeze the extras for a quick and convenient meal option in the future.
• For a more festive presentation, sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes over the dish before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the African-inspired spiced dumplings hot, accompanied by a generous amount of the aromatic sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and added freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the spiced dumplings on a platter, drizzle the sauce over them, and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. For an elegant touch, place a few whole spices, such as star anise or cinnamon sticks, around the dish.