Kobariški Štruklji with a Southern African Twist

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Slovenian Štruklji recipe is transformed by incorporating Southern African flavors and ingredients. The original recipe typically uses a dough made with white flour, while this version incorporates maize meal for a unique texture. Additionally, the filling is enhanced with a blend of warm spices commonly found in Southern African cuisine. The traditional accompaniment of sour cream is replaced with a rich and creamy peanut sauce, adding a delightful nutty flavor to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Kobariški štruklji, so you can check it out.

• For the dough: For the dough:
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (120g) maize meal 1 cup (120g) maize meal
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (240ml) warm water 1 cup (240ml) warm water
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• For the peanut sauce: For the peanut sauce:
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• 1/2 cup (120g) smooth peanut butter 1/2 cup (120g) smooth peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon lime juice 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Optional garnish: Optional garnish:
• Chopped peanuts Chopped peanuts
• Fresh cilantro Fresh cilantro

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 58g, 12g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, maize meal, and salt for the dough. Gradually add warm water and knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   Meanwhile, steam the sweet potatoes until tender. Mash them in a bowl and add cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Mix well.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
4. 4.
   Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
5. 5.
   Spread the sweet potato filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. 6.
   Carefully roll the dough into a log, tucking in the edges as you go. Seal the edges by pressing them together.
7. 7.
   Place the Štruklji on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. 8.
   While the Štruklji are baking, prepare the peanut sauce. In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and lime juice. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce is smooth and heated through.
9. 9.
   Once the Štruklji are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Slice into thick rounds.
10. 10.
    Serve the Spiced Sweet Potato Štruklji with the warm peanut sauce. Garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro, if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sweet potatoes — Make sure to steam the sweet potatoes until they are tender enough to mash easily. This will ensure a smooth and creamy filling for the Štruklji.
• Maize meal — The maize meal adds a unique texture to the dough. If you can't find maize meal, you can substitute it with fine cornmeal.
• Peanut butter — Use smooth peanut butter for the sauce to achieve a creamy consistency. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, you can use crunchy peanut butter instead.

Tips & Tricks

• If you want to add an extra layer of flavor, you can sprinkle some grated coconut over the sweet potato filling before rolling the dough.
• For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sweet potato filling.
• If you prefer a thinner peanut sauce, you can adjust the consistency by adding a little more coconut milk or water.
• Leftover Štruklji can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave. The peanut sauce can also be stored in the refrigerator for a few days.

Serving advice

Serve the Spiced Sweet Potato Štruklji warm, drizzled generously with the peanut sauce. Sprinkle with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro for added crunch and freshness. Pair it with a side of mixed greens or a fresh cucumber salad to balance the flavors.

Presentation advice

Arrange the sliced Štruklji on a serving platter, allowing the beautiful swirls of the filling to be visible. Drizzle the peanut sauce over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped peanuts and a few fresh cilantro leaves for an elegant touch.