Now now, as I mentioned in the intro *I love cooking*, which emphasises one thing only: food plays an important role in my life. YES, I went that far.
But seriously, growing up in an African household where our christian values and hospitality is at the core means that we spend A LOT of time in the kitchen. And sharing what we have prepared with family, friends and strangers is a fantastic way of fellowshipping (if that's even a word). There's something very special, if not sacred about sharing food (no matter how much or little) with those around us. The simple fact of inviting people over to dine with us is not only a blessing itself but some of the most interesting conversations starts as people get stuck in eating! I've had these experiences far too many times, and I can honestly exclaim that I always learn something new at the dinner-table, whether be it just general things or seriously deep facts or stories people have to share. Food has that ability, to spark conversations, emotions and laughter (sometimes tears, tears of Joy mostly)...but certainly lots of laughter!! To me, it simply does not get any better than that. So here's quick recipe I'm sharing with you all for one of our favourite delicacies which is always a hit and one that has been passed down from mama.
HOME MADE SAMOSAS (The process)
So, you start of with mince (which ever you prefer) and cook together with onions, garlic and adding salt & pepper once browned or any other seasoning such as chili (pepe or pili pilil, whatever you call it) to enhance the flavour so it suits your taste-buds. Stir it continuously for about 15mins. Then, you take it off the heat and let it rest for an additional 15 minutes or until completely cool.
When completely cool, make a paste which you will use to seal the samosas from flour and water. (the consistency should just perfect, meaning not too runny or too thick). Also, prior to cooking the mince, you should always leave the pastry (mine are shop bought) out for at least an hour to defrost at room temperature to ensure it's ready for when you need it.
And so the process begins. Begin by using one table spoon of the mince and placing it at one end of the square pastry like so...
Then, you start folding the edge, tucking it under where the mince ends and slowly rolling it towards the opposite end...
Once you reach the middle, bring the left & right ends in the middle to form and envelope-type shape.
This is where to apply the paste all over the top part of the opened envelope (not too much) and slowly roll it until the end.
And Voila!!! You've reached your destination :-)
You then repeat the process again to make more. With just a bowl full of mince, I was able to make up to 17 lovely meat spring rolls/samosas. The perfect thing about these are the fact that you can easily freeze them up and cook them whenever you wish. Alternatively, I also made vegetarian option just for variety. You simply cook the vegetables (any preferable combination) with the same spices as the meat, let it simmer completely with no residue of liquid & simply mash it up. After letting it cool down with a few minutes, repeat the same process as above and you're good to go. The only thing left is to fry it in hot sun flower oil for about 3 to 4 minutes or untill crispy & golden brown!
And this is how they turned out...
If only you could taste them, mhhh. Just delightful!! Who says cooking isn't creative?
They are also perfect accompanied with some delicious plantain banana, served with some Tilapia fish with the side of salad. Well, with the table set and the food ready...we all proceeded for the dining room & you know what happens next! Definitely a well spent Friday evening.
No comments:
Post a Comment