Moroccan-inspired Pierogi

Ingredients

While the traditional Polish Pierogi are typically filled with ingredients like potatoes, cheese, or meat, our Moroccan-inspired Pierogi feature a unique blend of flavors and spices commonly found in Moroccan cuisine. We have replaced the traditional fillings with a combination of aromatic spices, vegetables, and herbs, creating a fusion of two culinary worlds. We alse have the original recipe for Pierogi, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat) 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 cup (150g) cooked chickpeas, mashed 1 cup (150g) cooked chickpeas, mashed
• 1/2 cup (75g) cooked quinoa 1/2 cup (75g) cooked quinoa
• 1/4 cup (15g) fresh cilantro, chopped 1/4 cup (15g) fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for frying Olive oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 60g, 4g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until golden and fragrant.
3. 3.
   Add the ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the skillet. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional minute.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, combine the mashed chickpeas, cooked quinoa, and fresh cilantro. Add the spiced onion mixture to the bowl and mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. 5.
   Roll out the dough on a floured surface until it is about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out circles from the dough.
6. 6.
   Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling, pressing the edges together to seal. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
7. 7.
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the Pierogi in batches for about 5 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to a plate.
8. 8.
   In a skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Fry the cooked Pierogi until golden and crispy on both sides.
9. 9.
   Serve the Moroccan-inspired Pierogi hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chickpeas — Make sure to thoroughly mash the cooked chickpeas to create a smooth filling.
• Quinoa — Cook the quinoa according to package instructions and allow it to cool before adding it to the filling.
• Cilantro — Rinse the cilantro well and pat it dry before chopping to remove any dirt or excess moisture.

Tips & Tricks

• Experiment with different spices to customize the flavor profile of your Moroccan Pierogi.
• Serve the Pierogi with a side of yogurt or a tangy tomato sauce for dipping.
• If you prefer a crispier texture, pan-fry the Pierogi in a generous amount of olive oil until golden brown.
• These Pierogi can be made in advance and frozen. Simply boil them for a few minutes before frying.
• Feel free to add additional vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.

Serving advice

Serve the Moroccan-inspired Pierogi as a main course accompanied by a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. They can also be served as an appetizer or snack for a Moroccan-themed gathering.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden-brown Pierogi on a platter, garnished with sprigs of fresh cilantro. Drizzle some olive oil over the top for an extra touch of Moroccan flair.