Chapati is a traditional unleavened flatbread enjoyed across Zimbabwe and many other parts of Africa and South Asia. It serves as a wonderful accompaniment to a variety of dishes, and in this recipe, we’ll spice things up a bit by infusing the chapati with delightful flavours that reflect Zimbabwean cuisine. Paired with sautéed green beans and garlic, this dish is simple yet aromatic and can be a versatile staple in any kitchen, perfect for sharing with loved ones or even selling on Zimbo Menu, Zimbabwe’s thriving local food marketplace.
Ingredients
For the Spiced Chapati:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cumin seeds (you could also try coriander seeds for a different flair)
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- ½ cup vegetable oil or ghee
- Warm water (as needed)
- Butter (optional, for brushing)
For the Sautéed Green Beans and Garlic:
- 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp lemon juice (optional, for brightening flavors)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, cumin seeds, and turmeric powder. Mix thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly throughout the flour.
2. Create a well in the center and gradually add half of the vegetable oil, mixing it into the flour.
3. Slowly add warm water, little by little, stirring until the mixture forms a soft dough. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Cover the dough with a damp cloth or saran wrap, and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This resting time will help the chapati become softer when cooked.
Step 2: Roll Out the Chapati
5. After resting, divide the dough into equal-sized balls (about 6-8 depending on your preferred size).
6. Dust each ball lightly with flour and roll it out into a flat circle about 6 to 8 inches in diameter. Try to keep the thickness even.
Step 3: Cook the Chapati
7. Heat a tawa or non-stick skillet on medium-high heat. Once hot, place the rolled-out chapati on the surface.
8. After about 30 seconds, you will see bubbles forming; flip the chapati over. Cook on the other side until light brown spots appear. You can lightly brush with butter or oil if desired.
9. Repeat this process for the remaining chapatis, stacking them on a plate covered with a cloth to keep them warm.
Step 4: Sauté the Green Beans
10. While the chapati cooks, prepare the sautéed green beans. In a skillet, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.
11. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (1-2 minutes). Avoid burning the garlic!
12. Toss in the trimmed green beans, stirring frequently. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the beans are tender but still crisp.
13. Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of lemon juice to bring out the flavors.
Enjoy Your Meal!
14. To serve, place a warm chapati on a plate, and spoon the sautéed green beans with garlic alongside. Enjoy this delightful taste of Zimbabwean cuisine with family or friends! This recipe can easily inspire meal creations suitable for sharing or selling on Zimbo Menu, offering a unique fusion experience that captures the heart of local flavors.
Cooking Tips
- For a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
- Experiment with spices; adding some chili powder can give an extra kick to your chapati!
- Don’t skip the resting time for the dough; it significantly improves the texture of the chapati.
This Spiced Chapati with Sautéed Green Beans and Garlic embodies the warmth and richness of Zimbabwean flavors. It’s not just a meal; it’s a way to connect with culture and community. Consider downloading the Zimbo Menu app to see if the marketplace aligns with your culinary passions and business aspirations!
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