Togolese-inspired Spiced Palm Oil Biscuits

Ingredients

In this Togolese adaptation, we substitute the traditional olive oil used in Spanish Tortas de aceite with spiced palm oil, a staple ingredient in Togolese cuisine. Additionally, we incorporate Togolese spices such as ginger, garlic, and chili powder to infuse the biscuits with a unique flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Tortas de aceite de Castilleja de la Cuesta, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (120ml) spiced palm oil 1/2 cup (120ml) spiced palm oil
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water 1/4 cup (60ml) water

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.5g

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, combine the all-purpose flour, ginger powder, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. 3.
   Add the spiced palm oil to the dry ingredients and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the water while mixing until the dough comes together. Knead lightly until smooth.
5. 5.
   Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a thin circle.
6. 6.
   Place the circles on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
7. 7.
   Remove from the oven and let the biscuits cool completely before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Spiced palm oil — Ensure the palm oil is spiced with Togolese spices for an authentic flavor. If unavailable, you can add a pinch of ginger powder, garlic powder, and chili powder to regular palm oil.

Tips & Tricks

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

Serving advice

Serve these Togolese Spiced Palm Oil Biscuits as a snack with a cup of tea or as a side dish to accompany Togolese stews and soups.

Presentation advice

Arrange the biscuits on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley, to add a pop of color and enhance their visual appeal.