Tanzanian-inspired Beef Rolls with Spiced Peanut Sauce

Ingredients

In this Tanzanian adaptation of Phở cuốn, we infuse the beef slices with Tanzanian spices, such as cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon, to add a unique flavor profile. Additionally, we replace the traditional Vietnamese dipping sauce with a spiced peanut sauce, which complements the beef rolls perfectly. We alse have the original recipe for Phở cuốn, so you can check it out.

• 300g (10.5 oz) beef sirloin, thinly sliced 300g (10.5 oz) beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 12 rice paper sheets 12 rice paper sheets
• 1 cup (240ml) warm water 1 cup (240ml) warm water
• 1/2 cup (120g) creamy peanut butter 1/2 cup (120g) creamy peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon lime juice 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 4g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the beef slices, ground cardamom, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon. Mix well to ensure the beef is evenly coated with the spices.
2. 2.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef slices and cook for 2-3 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. 3.
   Fill a large shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper sheet into the water for a few seconds until it becomes pliable. Place the soaked rice paper on a clean surface.
4. 4.
   Arrange a few slices of cooked beef in the center of the rice paper. Fold the sides of the rice paper over the beef and roll tightly to form a neat roll. Repeat with the remaining rice paper sheets and beef slices.
5. 5.
   In a small bowl, whisk together the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and chili flakes until smooth and well combined. Adjust the consistency by adding more warm water if needed.
6. 6.
   Serve the Tanzanian-inspired beef rolls with the spiced peanut sauce for dipping. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef — For the best results, choose lean beef sirloin and slice it thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
• Rice paper — To prevent the rice paper from sticking together, place a damp cloth or paper towel between each sheet while working with them.
• Peanut butter — Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth and velvety texture in the sauce.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier sauce, add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the peanut sauce.
• Customize the filling by adding thinly sliced vegetables like cucumber, carrots, or bell peppers to the beef rolls.
• Soak the rice paper sheets one at a time to prevent them from becoming too soft or sticky.

Serving advice

Serve the Tanzanian-inspired beef rolls as an appetizer or a light meal. They are best enjoyed fresh and can be served at room temperature or slightly chilled.

Presentation advice

Arrange the beef rolls on a platter, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, and serve the spiced peanut sauce in a small bowl alongside the rolls. The vibrant colors of the rolls and the aromatic sauce will make for an enticing presentation.