Southern African Braised Meat Wraps

Ingredients

In this adaptation of the Korean Ssam, we have incorporated the vibrant flavors of Southern African cuisine. The original dish typically features Korean-style marinated meat wrapped in lettuce leaves. However, in this recipe, we have replaced the Korean marinade with a blend of Southern African spices, giving the dish a unique and exciting twist. Additionally, we have introduced traditional Southern African toppings and accompaniments to enhance the flavors and authenticity of the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Ssam, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) boneless beef or lamb, cut into thin strips 500g (1.1 lb) boneless beef or lamb, cut into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons peri-peri spice blend 2 teaspoons peri-peri spice blend
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
• 8 large tortillas 8 large tortillas
• Lettuce leaves, for wrapping Lettuce leaves, for wrapping
• Sliced tomatoes, for topping Sliced tomatoes, for topping
• Sliced pickles, for topping Sliced pickles, for topping
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving Lemon wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the beef or lamb strips to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides.
3. 3.
   In a small bowl, combine the peri-peri spice blend, paprika, cayenne pepper, ground coriander, ground cumin, and salt. Mix well.
4. 4.
   Sprinkle the spice mixture over the meat in the skillet and stir to coat evenly.
5. 5.
   Pour the beef or vegetable broth into the skillet, cover, and simmer over low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together.
6. 6.
   Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
7. 7.
   To assemble the wraps, place a lettuce leaf on each tortilla. Spoon a generous amount of the braised meat onto the lettuce leaf.
8. 8.
   Top with sliced tomatoes, pickles, and fresh cilantro.
9. 9.
   Squeeze a lemon wedge over the filling for an extra burst of flavor.
10. 10.
    Roll up the tortilla tightly, tucking in the sides as you go.
11. 11.
    Serve the Braised Meat Wraps warm, with additional lemon wedges on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef or lamb — For the best results, choose cuts of meat that are suitable for slow cooking, such as chuck roast or lamb shoulder. Trim any excess fat before slicing into thin strips.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier flavor, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the meat during cooking.
• For a smoky twist, grill the tortillas for a few seconds on each side before assembling the wraps.
• Experiment with different toppings and sauces, such as mango salsa or spicy chutney, to add your own personal touch to the dish.
• Leftover braised meat can be used in sandwiches or salads for a delicious next-day meal.
• If you're short on time, you can use a pressure cooker to speed up the cooking process. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cooking times.

Serving advice

Serve the Braised Meat Wraps as a main course for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Accompany them with a side of African-inspired salads, such as a spicy cabbage slaw or a sweet potato and black bean salad, to complete the experience.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Braised Meat Wraps on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and lemon wedges. The vibrant colors of the toppings will create an enticing display. Serve with a side of pickled vegetables or a colorful salad to add visual appeal to the presentation.