Bissap Puffs

Bissap, also known as hibiscus or "sorrel" in the Caribbean, is a beloved ingredient in many cultures. Its vibrant red hue and tangy flavor make it a popular choice for beverages, sauces, and even dessert fillings like the one in these delightful Bissap Puffs. Originating from West Africa, bissap leaves have been traditionally used to create stunning drinks and delicious cuisine celebrated globally.

Ingredients

• Bissap leaves
• Sugar
• All-purpose flour
• Water
• Unsalted butter
• Eggs
• Yeast
• Salt
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Preparing the Bissap Filling

1. Rinse the bissap leaves thoroughly under cold water to remove any impurities.
2. In a saucepan, combine the bissap leaves with water and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the leaves release their color and flavor into the water, forming a thick concentrate.
4. Strain the liquid into a bowl, discarding the leaves, and return the liquid to the saucepan.
5. Add sugar to taste, stirring until it dissolves completely.
6. Continue simmering until the mixture thickens to a syrupy texture.
7. Set the filling aside to cool.

Making the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly.
3. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and beaten eggs to the flour mixture, stirring to form a sticky dough.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour until it doubles in size.

Assembling the Puffs

1. After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to a 1/4-inch thickness.
2. Cut the dough into small circles using a cutter or the rim of a glass.
3. Spoon a small amount of the cooled bissap filling onto the center of each circle.
4. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, pressing the edges firmly to seal.
5. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep-fryer or heavy saucepan over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the Bissap Puffs in batches until golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain them on paper towels.

Serving Suggestions

• Dust the Bissap Puffs with powdered sugar before serving for an added touch of sweetness.
• Serve them warm as a delightful dessert or snack, perfect for festive occasions or a Sunday afternoon treat.
• Pair the puffs with a refreshing glass of chilled bissap juice for a complete cultural experience.

Enjoying Bissap Puffs

Bissap Puffs are a versatile treat that can be enjoyed by all ages. Their sweet and tart filling combined with the crispy dough make them irresistible. Whether you're new to bissap or a longtime fan, these puffs deliver a unique taste of West African cuisine straight to your home. Be sure to set a timer while preparing and cooking to ensure all steps are timed perfectly for the best results.