Central African Reform Torta

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Serbian Reform Torta is infused with Central African flavors. The original recipe typically includes ingredients such as ground meat, potatoes, carrots, and spices like paprika and black pepper. However, in the Central African version, we incorporate local spices like cayenne pepper, ginger, and coriander to add a unique twist. Additionally, we substitute some of the vegetables with Central African staples like plantains and okra, giving the dish an authentic taste of the region. We alse have the original recipe for Reform torta, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) boneless chicken, diced 500g (1.1 lb) boneless chicken, diced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 2 plantains, peeled and sliced 2 plantains, peeled and sliced
• 200g (7 oz) okra, trimmed and sliced 200g (7 oz) okra, trimmed and sliced
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 cup chicken broth 1 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 sheets puff pastry 2 sheets puff pastry

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 420 kcal / 1760 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 22g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 38g, 10g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
3. 3.
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until translucent.
4. 4.
   Add the diced chicken to the skillet and cook until browned.
5. 5.
   Stir in the cayenne pepper, ground ginger, and ground coriander, and cook for an additional minute.
6. 6.
   Add the sliced plantains, okra, and diced tomatoes to the skillet, and cook for 5 minutes.
7. 7.
   Pour in the chicken broth and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
8. 8.
   Roll out one sheet of puff pastry and line a greased baking dish with it.
9. 9.
   Pour the chicken and vegetable mixture into the baking dish, spreading it evenly.
10. 10.
    Cover the filling with the second sheet of puff pastry, sealing the edges.
11. 11.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
12. 12.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Plantains — Make sure to use ripe plantains for a sweeter flavor and softer texture.
• Okra — To reduce the sliminess of okra, you can blanch it in boiling water for a few minutes before adding it to the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of cayenne pepper.
• Serve the Reform Torta with a side of Central African hot sauce for an extra kick.
• You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the filling for added flavor and nutrition.
• Make sure to let the Reform Torta cool slightly before slicing to allow the filling to set.

Serving advice

Serve the Central African Reform Torta warm as a main course. Accompany it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to complete the meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, garnish the Reform Torta with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley. Cut it into slices and arrange them on a platter for a beautiful display.