Ivorian-inspired Stuffed Pancakes

Ingredients

In this Ivorian-inspired adaptation, the traditional Azerbaijani Qutab is transformed by incorporating Ivorian flavors and ingredients. The original dish typically features a filling of minced lamb or beef, onions, and herbs, while the Ivorian-inspired version incorporates local Ivorian spices, such as ginger, garlic, and chili peppers, along with traditional Ivorian vegetables like eggplant and okra. This fusion of flavors creates a unique and exciting twist on the original dish. We alse have the original recipe for Qutab, so you can check it out.

• For the pancake batter: For the pancake batter:
• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (240ml) water 1 cup (240ml) water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef or lamb 1 pound (450g) ground beef or lamb
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 eggplant, diced 1 eggplant, diced
• 1 cup (150g) okra, sliced 1 cup (150g) okra, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying Vegetable oil for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, water, salt, and vegetable oil. Mix until a smooth batter forms. Let the batter rest for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb, chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, chili powder, paprika, ground coriander, diced eggplant, and sliced okra. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine.
3. 3.
   Heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the meat and vegetable mixture and cook until the meat is browned and the vegetables are tender. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. 4.
   Heat a non-stick frying pan or griddle over medium heat. Pour a ladleful of the pancake batter onto the pan and spread it evenly to form a thin pancake.
5. 5.
   Cook the pancake for 2-3 minutes until the edges start to crisp up and the bottom is golden brown. Flip the pancake and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the other side is golden brown as well.
6. 6.
   Remove the pancake from the pan and place it on a plate. Spoon a generous amount of the meat and vegetable filling onto one half of the pancake. Fold the other half over the filling to form a half-moon shape.
7. 7.
   Repeat the process with the remaining batter and filling until all the pancakes are cooked and filled.
8. 8.
   Serve the Ivorian-inspired stuffed pancakes warm with a side of Ivorian tomato sauce or a spicy peanut sauce.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Eggplant — To reduce bitterness, sprinkle salt over the diced eggplant and let it sit for 15 minutes. Rinse the eggplant thoroughly before using.
• Okra — To minimize the sliminess of okra, slice it and soak it in vinegar or lemon juice for 30 minutes before cooking.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add extra chili powder or fresh chili peppers to the filling mixture.
• Experiment with different fillings such as chicken, shrimp, or vegetarian options like mushrooms and spinach.
• Serve the stuffed pancakes with a side of Ivorian tomato sauce or a spicy peanut sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
• Make the pancake batter in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours for a quicker preparation.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the stuffed pancakes in the oven instead of frying them.

Serving advice

Serve the Ivorian-inspired stuffed pancakes as a main course accompanied by a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the stuffed pancakes on a platter, showcasing their golden brown color and the visible filling. Drizzle the pancakes with a touch of Ivorian tomato sauce or spicy peanut sauce for an attractive presentation. Sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs on top for a pop of color.