Nigerian-style Stuffed Dumplings

Ingredients

While the original Slovenian Kozjanski krapi is typically made with a dough made from flour and water, the Nigerian adaptation incorporates local ingredients and flavors. The filling of the dumplings is spiced with Nigerian spices such as curry powder, ginger, and garlic, giving it a distinct Nigerian taste. Additionally, the dumplings are served with a spicy tomato sauce, which adds a fiery kick to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Kozjanski krapi, 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 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef or chicken 1 pound (450g) ground beef or chicken
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon curry powder 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• For the spicy tomato sauce: For the spicy tomato sauce:
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat) 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• Salt to taste Salt to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 4g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt for the dough. Gradually add water and knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover and set aside to rest for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the ground beef or chicken to the skillet and cook until browned. Stir in the curry powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.
4. 4.
   Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a thin circle.
5. 5.
   Place a spoonful of the meat filling onto one half of the dough circle. Fold the other half over the filling and press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
6. 6.
   Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling.
7. 7.
   Place the stuffed dumplings in a steamer basket and steam for 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through.
8. 8.
   While the dumplings are steaming, prepare the spicy tomato sauce. Heat vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
9. 9.
   Add the diced tomatoes and red bell pepper to the saucepan. Stir in the paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt. Cook for 10-15 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
10. 10.
    Serve the Nigerian-style stuffed dumplings hot, accompanied by the spicy tomato sauce.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef or chicken — Make sure to cook the meat thoroughly to ensure food safety.
• Curry powder — Adjust the amount according to your preference for spiciness and flavor intensity.
• Ginger powder — If you prefer a stronger ginger flavor, you can use freshly grated ginger instead.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the meat filling with a mixture of sautéed vegetables and spices.
• Experiment with different fillings such as shrimp, tofu, or mushrooms for a variety of flavors.
• Serve the stuffed dumplings with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• The dough can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before use.
• If you don't have a steamer basket, you can use a colander placed over a pot of boiling water as an alternative.

Serving advice

Serve the Nigerian-style stuffed dumplings hot, accompanied by the spicy tomato sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley for added freshness and visual appeal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the stuffed dumplings on a platter, showcasing their vibrant colors. Drizzle the spicy tomato sauce over the dumplings or serve it in a separate bowl for dipping. Sprinkle some chopped green onions or sesame seeds on top for an extra touch of elegance.