Chamuça Charm: A Culinary Love Letter from Mozambique

Image of a few Chamuça in a plate

Chamuça Charm: A Culinary Love Letter from Mozambique

Chamuça, born in the vibrant kitchens of Mozambique, is a savory pastry filled with spiced goodness. Its origins are traced to the Indian samosa, a culinary union resulting from Mozambique’s cultural tapestry.

CountryMozambique
Degree of DifficultyMedium
Type of FoodStarter
Snack
Cooking Time30 minutes
Preparation Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour 15 minutes
Serving Size20 chamuças

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup minced meat (beef or chicken)
  • 1 cup finely chopped onions
  • 1 cup finely chopped potatoes
  • 2 tablespoons curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooking oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. Dough Delight:
    • Mix flour and water, knead into a smooth dough.
    • Divide into balls and roll each into a thin circle.
  2. Filling Fiesta:
    • Sauté onions, add meat, potatoes, garlic, and curry powder.
    • Season with salt and pepper, cook until a fragrant symphony plays.
  3. Wrap ‘n’ Roll:
    • Spoon filling onto dough circles.
    • Fold into triangles, sealing edges with a dash of water.
  4. Fry & Sigh:
    • Heat oil and fry chamuças until golden brown.
    • Let them drain, giving you a golden moment of anticipation.

Nutritional Information: (per chamuça)

Calories150 kcal
Fat8g
Protein5g
Carbohydrates15g
Sugar1g
Fiber2g

Optional Additions or Substitutions:

  • Experiment with vegetable fillings for a vegetarian twist.
  • Add a hint of Mozambican peri-peri for a spicy kick.

Tips or Variations:

  • Seal chamuças well to prevent flavor leaks while frying.
  • Serve with a tangy dipping sauce for an extra flavor punch.

Other Countries Where They Also Make This Recipe:

  • India, Portugal – Reflecting Mozambique’s diverse culinary influences.

Allergen Checklist:

  • Contains gluten and may contain traces of nuts.
  • Suitable for vegeterians/vegans if meat is substituted or removed.

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