Mauritanian-style Mucenici

Ingredients

In this Mauritanian adaptation of Mucenici, we incorporate Mauritanian spices and flavors to give the dish a distinct Mauritanian twist. The original Romanian dish is typically sweet, but we have transformed it into a savory delight by infusing the semolina dumplings with Mauritanian spices and serving them in a tomato-based sauce. We alse have the original recipe for Mucenici, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) semolina 2 cups (400g) semolina
• 1 cup (240ml) water 1 cup (240ml) water
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 cup (240ml) vegetable broth 1 cup (240ml) vegetable broth
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 55g, 5g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the semolina, water, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and salt. Mix well until a dough forms.
2. 2.
   Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a thin rope. Cut the ropes into small dumplings, approximately 1 inch in length.
3. 3.
   In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until golden brown.
4. 4.
   Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine.
5. 5.
   Gently drop the semolina dumplings into the tomato sauce. Cover the pot and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and tender.
6. 6.
   Serve the Mauritanian-style Mucenici hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Semolina — Make sure to use fine semolina for this recipe to achieve the desired texture of the dumplings.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the tomato sauce.
• For a heartier meal, serve the Mauritanian-style Mucenici with a side of couscous or rice.
• Feel free to customize the spice blend to your taste by adjusting the quantities of the Mauritanian spices.

Serving advice

Serve the Mauritanian-style Mucenici as a main course, accompanied by a fresh salad and warm bread.

Presentation advice

Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of paprika and a few fresh cilantro leaves to add a pop of color and freshness.