Gambian Spiced Tomato Flatbread

Ingredients

The Gambian Spiced Tomato Flatbread differs from the original Italian Pizza Marinara in terms of the spices used and the cooking techniques. While the Italian version typically uses oregano and basil for seasoning, the Gambian adaptation incorporates traditional Gambian spices such as cayenne pepper, ginger, and paprika. Additionally, the flatbread is baked to achieve a crispy texture, rather than being cooked in a wood-fired oven as in the Italian tradition. We alse have the original recipe for Pizza marinara, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• 1 teaspoon (5g) sugar 1 teaspoon (5g) sugar
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
• 1 cup (240ml) warm water 1 cup (240ml) warm water
• 4 ripe tomatoes, diced 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon (5g) cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon (5g) cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon (5g) ground ginger 1 teaspoon (5g) ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon (5g) paprika 1 teaspoon (5g) paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 3g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 5g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Make a well in the center and add the olive oil and warm water. Mix until a dough forms.
2. 2.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough back in the bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).
4. 4.
   In a saucepan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté until they become translucent.
5. 5.
   Add the diced tomatoes, cayenne pepper, ground ginger, paprika, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Cook the sauce for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
6. 6.
   Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll out each portion into a thin circle or rectangle, depending on your preference.
7. 7.
   Place the rolled-out dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread a generous amount of the tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
8. 8.
   Bake the flatbreads in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy.
9. 9.
   Remove the flatbreads from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro. Slice and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Tomatoes — Use ripe and juicy tomatoes for the sauce to enhance the flavor and texture.
• Cayenne pepper — Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your spice preference. Add more for a spicier flatbread.
• Fresh cilantro — If you're not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with fresh parsley for a milder herb flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a crispier crust, preheat the baking sheet in the oven before placing the rolled-out dough on it.
• Experiment with different toppings such as sliced bell peppers, onions, or olives to add more variety to the flatbread.
• If you prefer a milder spice level, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether.

Serving advice

Serve the Gambian Spiced Tomato Flatbread as a main course accompanied by a fresh salad or as an appetizer for sharing. Cut it into smaller pieces for a delightful finger food option during gatherings.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some fresh cilantro leaves on top of the flatbread before serving. You can also drizzle a little olive oil over the flatbread for added shine.