Liberian Tareco Biscuits

Ingredients

Liberian Tareco Biscuits differ from the original Portuguese Tareco in terms of the spices used and the overall flavor profile. While the Portuguese version is sweeter and often flavored with cinnamon, the Liberian adaptation incorporates local spices that add a savory and slightly spicy element to the biscuits. We alse have the original recipe for Tareco, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Nutrition

• Calories: 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat: 7g (Saturated Fat: 4g)
• Carbohydrates: 12g (Sugar: 0g)
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Salt: 0.3g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. 3.
   Add the cold cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the water to the mixture, a little at a time, and mix until the dough comes together.
5. 5.
   Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently until smooth.
6. 6.
   Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) and cut out biscuit shapes using a cookie cutter.
7. 7.
   Place the biscuits onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each biscuit.
8. 8.
   Brush the tops of the biscuits with the beaten egg wash.
9. 9.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and crispy.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and allow the biscuits to cool completely before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Butter — Make sure the butter is cold and cubed to achieve a flaky texture in the biscuits.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper according to your preference.
• Serve the biscuits warm for an extra enjoyable experience.
• Store the biscuits in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness.

Serving advice

Serve the Liberian Tareco Biscuits as a snack alongside a hot cup of Liberian tea or coffee.

Presentation advice

Arrange the biscuits on a platter or in a basket, allowing their golden brown color to shine. Consider adding a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne pepper on top for an extra touch of color.