Gambian-style Savoury Pattie

Ingredients

In the Gambian-style Savoury Pattie, we adapt the original Jamaican recipe to incorporate the unique flavors and spices of Gambian cuisine. We replace some of the Jamaican spices with Gambian spices such as ginger, garlic, and chili to give the patties a distinct Gambian twist. Additionally, we use locally available ingredients commonly used in Gambian cooking to ensure an authentic taste. We alse have the original recipe for Savoury Pattie, 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, chilled and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 red chili, finely chopped 1 red chili, finely chopped
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef or lamb 1 pound (450g) ground beef or lamb
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 22g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 1g
• Protein: 16g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the chilled butter and use your fingertips to rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the cold water to the flour mixture, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough lightly until smooth, then cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped chili. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the spices are fragrant.
4. 4.
   Add the ground beef or lamb to the skillet and cook until browned. Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, ground paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. 5.
   Pour in the water and simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes, until the liquid has evaporated and the filling has thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. 7.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out circles from the dough.
8. 8.
   Place a spoonful of the cooled filling onto one half of each dough circle. Fold the other half over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal the patties.
9. 9.
   Place the patties on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
10. 10.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the patties are golden brown and crispy.
11. 11.
    Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef or lamb — Ensure the meat is cooked thoroughly to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
• Fresh cilantro — Rinse the cilantro thoroughly and pat it dry before using it as a garnish.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add more chili to the filling mixture.
• Experiment with different ground meats such as chicken or turkey for variation.
• Serve the patties with a side of spicy tomato sauce or chutney for extra flavor.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground meat with cooked lentils or mashed chickpeas.
• Freeze any leftover patties for a quick and convenient snack later.

Serving advice

Serve the Gambian-style Savoury Patties hot as a standalone snack or as part of a meal. They pair well with a side of spicy tomato sauce or a refreshing salad.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden-brown patties on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve them alongside a small bowl of spicy tomato sauce for dipping.