Cameroonian Spiced Kubaneh Bread

Ingredients

In this Cameroonian adaptation of Kubaneh, we incorporate traditional Cameroonian spices and herbs to infuse the bread with the flavors of the region. This adds a distinct twist to the original Yemeni dish, creating a fusion of culinary traditions. We alse have the original recipe for Kubaneh, so you can check it out.

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground garlic 1 teaspoon ground garlic
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup (240ml) warm water 1 cup (240ml) warm water
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 38g, 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, coriander, ginger, garlic, paprika, black pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
2. 2.
   Add the vegetable oil, melted butter, and warm water to the dry ingredients. Mix well until a soft dough forms.
3. 3.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
6. 6.
   Punch down the dough and divide it into small portions. Shape each portion into a ball and place them in a greased baking dish.
7. 7.
   Cover the baking dish with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough balls rise for another 30 minutes.
8. 8.
   Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground coriander — Toast the coriander seeds lightly in a dry pan before grinding them to enhance their flavor.
• Ground ginger — Use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger for a more intense and aromatic taste.
• Ground garlic — Substitute with freshly minced garlic for a stronger garlic flavor.
• Ground paprika — Opt for smoked paprika to add a smoky undertone to the bread.
• Fresh cilantro — Finely chop the cilantro just before garnishing to preserve its vibrant color and fresh taste.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough.
• Serve the Cameroonian Spiced Kubaneh Bread with a side of spicy tomato sauce for an extra kick.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavors to your liking.
• Brush the bread with melted butter immediately after baking for a glossy finish.
• Leftover bread can be toasted and enjoyed with butter or jam for breakfast.

Serving advice

Serve the Cameroonian Spiced Kubaneh Bread warm as a standalone snack or as a side dish with your favorite Cameroonian stews or soups.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden-brown bread balls on a platter, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve them in a traditional Cameroonian woven basket for an authentic presentation.