Caribbean Chinese Potato Turnovers

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the original Romanian Plăcintă cu cartofi is transformed into a Caribbean Chinese delight. The traditional Romanian flavors are infused with the vibrant spices and ingredients commonly found in Caribbean Chinese cuisine. The turnovers are given a Caribbean twist with the addition of spices like jerk seasoning and scotch bonnet peppers, while Chinese influences are incorporated through the use of soy sauce and Chinese five-spice powder. We alse have the original recipe for Plăcintă cu cartofi, 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 (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon jerk seasoning 1 teaspoon jerk seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder 1/2 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
• 1 scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and minced (optional for extra heat) 1 scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and minced (optional for extra heat)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the cold water, a little at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Knead the dough lightly until smooth, then shape it into a ball. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Meanwhile, boil the diced potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and set aside.
4. 4.
   In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant.
5. 5.
   Add the cooked potatoes to the skillet and mash them with a fork or potato masher. Stir in the jerk seasoning, Chinese five-spice powder, minced scotch bonnet pepper (if using), soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
6. 6.
   Preheat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 180°C (350°F).
7. 7.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut out circles using a round cookie cutter or a glass.
8. 8.
   Place a spoonful of the potato filling onto each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
9. 9.
   Carefully place the turnovers into the preheated oil and fry until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
10. 10.
    Serve the Caribbean Chinese Potato Turnovers warm as a delicious snack or appetizer.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Potatoes — Make sure to dice the potatoes into small, even pieces for quicker and more even cooking.
• Scotch bonnet pepper — Adjust the amount or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder flavor profile.
• Chinese five-spice powder — If you don't have Chinese five-spice powder, you can substitute it with a combination of ground cinnamon, cloves, fennel seeds, and star anise.

Tips & Tricks

• For a healthier alternative, you can bake the turnovers instead of frying them. Simply brush them with a little oil and bake at 200°C (400°F) for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
• Experiment with different spices and seasonings to customize the flavor profile of the turnovers to your liking.
• Serve the turnovers with a side of tangy tamarind chutney or sweet chili sauce for dipping.

Serving advice

Serve the Caribbean Chinese Potato Turnovers as a tasty appetizer or snack. They can also be enjoyed as a light meal alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.

Presentation advice

Arrange the turnovers on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, for a pop of color. Serve them warm to showcase their golden, crispy exterior.