Torta Osimhen - Nigerian-inspired Savory Cake

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon curry powder 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat) 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
• 3 large eggs 3 large eggs
• 1 cup (150g) grated potatoes 1 cup (150g) grated potatoes
• 1 cup (150g) grated carrots 1 cup (150g) grated carrots
• 1 cup (150g) diced bell peppers (assorted colors) 1 cup (150g) diced bell peppers (assorted colors)
• 1 cup (150g) diced onions 1 cup (150g) diced onions
• 1 cup (150g) cooked and shredded chicken or beef 1 cup (150g) cooked and shredded chicken or beef
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 4g
• Protein: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a round cake pan.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, dried thyme, curry powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, and eggs until well combined.
4. 4.
   Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. 5.
   Fold in the grated potatoes, grated carrots, diced bell peppers, diced onions, and shredded chicken or beef.
6. 6.
   Pour the batter into the greased cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. 7.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let the Torta Osimhen cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. 9.
   Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Grated potatoes — Squeeze out any excess moisture from the grated potatoes using a clean kitchen towel to prevent the Torta Osimhen from becoming too wet.
• Diced bell peppers — For added flavor and texture, you can lightly sauté the diced bell peppers before adding them to the batter.

Tips & Tricks

• To make the Torta Osimhen spicier, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add chopped chili peppers to the batter.
• Serve the Torta Osimhen warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
• Customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or protein options.
• Leftover Torta Osimhen can be refrigerated and enjoyed as a delicious cold snack the next day.
• For a festive touch, decorate the Torta Osimhen with colorful edible flowers or additional fresh herbs.

Serving advice

Slice the Torta Osimhen into wedges and serve it as a main course alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. It can also be enjoyed as a delightful appetizer or snack.

Presentation advice

Present the Torta Osimhen on a decorative platter, garnished with fresh parsley and colorful edible flowers. The golden-brown crust and vibrant vegetable specks will make it visually appealing.