Umunsi Mukuru Bites
Background and History
Umunsi Mukuru Bites are a delightful and festive treat often enjoyed during celebrations and special occasions in Rwanda. With a rich mix of spices and a balance of savory and sweet flavors, this dish has evolved over generations. It combines traditional Rwandan flavors with innovative techniques to create an unforgettable tasting experience. Served at gatherings, these bites symbolize hospitality and festivity, making them a must-have at any Umunsi Mukuru, which means "Grand Day" in Kinyarwanda.
Ingredients
- Plantains - 4 large, ripe
- Ground Beef - 500g
- Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
- Ginger - 1 teaspoon, grated
- Coriander - 1 teaspoon, ground
- Cumin - 1 teaspoon, ground
- Cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon, ground
- Salt - to taste
- Black Pepper - to taste
- Coconut Oil - for frying
- Eggs - 2, beaten
- Breadcrumbs - 1 cup
- Curry Powder - 1 teaspoon
- Parsley - for garnish
Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Plantains
Start by peeling the plantains and slicing them into small, bite-sized pieces. Fry them in coconut oil until golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Step 2: Cooking the Beef Mixture
In a separate pan, heat some coconut oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute. Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned.
Season the meat with coriander, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to cook for another 5 minutes to absorb the spices fully.
Step 3: Assembling the Bites
Once the beef is ready, take one piece of fried plantain and top it with a spoonful of meat mixture. Repeat this process for all the plantain pieces. Coat each bite with beaten eggs, then roll in breadcrumbs mixed with curry powder.
Step 4: Frying the Bites
Heat more coconut oil in a pan. Fry the bites on all sides until crispy and golden. Make sure to maintain the heat at a level that cooks them evenly to avoid burning.
Cooking Process
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: About 40 minutes - For detailed assistance, use a cooking timer.
The main steps involve frying until the bites achieve a crispy texture while ensuring the insides are cooked through. You can adjust the sequence of cooking times for efficiency.
How to Enjoy Umunsi Mukuru Bites
Serve your Umunsi Mukuru Bites warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. These bites pair wonderfully with a refreshing side salad or a tangy dipping sauce. Perfect for communal dining, make sure to share them with family and friends during your celebrations, just as Rwandans do. Enjoy!