Tanzanian-style Beef Risoles

Recipe

Tanzanian-style Beef Risoles

Savory Tanzanian Beef Pockets: A Fusion of Flavors

Indulge in the rich and aromatic Tanzanian-style Beef Risoles, a delightful fusion of Brazilian and Tanzanian cuisines. These crispy pockets filled with seasoned beef are a popular street food in Tanzania, offering a unique blend of flavors and textures.

Jan Dec

30 minutes

20 minutes

50 minutes

4 servings

Medium

Non-vegetarian, Dairy-free, Nut-free, Soy-free, Gluten-free (if using gluten-free flour)

Wheat (if using regular flour)

Vegetarian, Vegan, Paleo, Keto, Low-carb

Ingredients

In this Tanzanian adaptation of the Brazilian dish, the traditional risoles are infused with Tanzanian flavors. The original recipe is modified by incorporating Tanzanian spices such as curry powder, turmeric, and cumin, which add a distinct and aromatic taste to the beef filling. Additionally, the pastry shell is made using local Tanzanian ingredients, giving it a unique texture and flavor. We alse have the original recipe for Risoles, so you can check it out.

Nutrition

  • Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
  • Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 6g
  • Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 2g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Salt: 1g

Preparation

  1. 1.
    In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, water, and vegetable oil. Knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
  2. 2.
    In a skillet, heat some vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until translucent.
  3. 3.
    Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Stir in the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and let it cool.
  4. 4.
    Take a small portion of the dough and roll it out into a thin circle. Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of the dough circle.
  5. 5.
    Fold the dough over the filling, forming a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal the risole.
  6. 6.
    Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer. Fry the risoles until golden brown and crispy on both sides. Remove from the oil and drain on a paper towel.
  7. 7.
    Serve the Tanzanian-style Beef Risoles hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

  • Ground beef — Use lean ground beef for a healthier option. You can also substitute it with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter variation.
  • Curry powder — Adjust the amount of curry powder according to your preference for spiciness. Feel free to experiment with different spice blends to suit your taste.
  • Vegetable oil — Use a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or sunflower oil, for frying the risoles.

Tips & Tricks

  • To achieve a crispier texture, you can double fry the risoles. After the initial frying, let them cool for a few minutes, then fry them again until they turn golden brown.
  • Serve the Tanzanian-style Beef Risoles with a side of tangy tomato chutney or a spicy dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
  • If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and carrots.

Serving advice

Serve the Tanzanian-style Beef Risoles as an appetizer or snack. They are best enjoyed hot and crispy, straight from the fryer.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden-brown risoles on a platter and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves or a sprinkle of paprika for an attractive presentation. Serve them alongside the dipping sauce or chutney in small bowls for a visually appealing and delicious treat.