Saint Lucian Dhal and Saltfish Pie
"A savory combination of dhal and saltfish encased in flak..."
🍲 Dal Pie with Salt Fish 🐟
This delightful snack from Saint Lucia combines a soft, flavorful dough with a savory filling of dal and salt fish, making it a perfect treat for any time of day.
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🌍 What Is Dal Pie with Salt Fish?
Dal pie is a popular dish in Saint Lucia, often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. It features a dough filled with a spiced mixture of dal (split peas) and salt fish, offering a unique blend of Caribbean flavors.
🧾 Ingredients
**Base:**
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm water (divided)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
**Optional (for filling):**
- 1 cup dal (split peas)
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 scotch bonnet pepper (or to taste)
- 2 tbsp green seasoning
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp cumin (jira)
- Salt to taste
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 spring onions, chopped
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. **Activate the Yeast**
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Mix and set aside until frothy.
2. **Prepare the Dough**
- In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the activated yeast mixture and vegetable oil.
- Gradually add the remaining warm water and mix until a soft dough forms.
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- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-15 minutes until soft.
- Place the dough in a covered bowl in a warm area to rest for 30 minutes.
3. **Prepare the Filling**
- In a pot, combine dal, garlic, water, scotch bonnet, green seasoning, turmeric, cumin, and salt.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 20 minutes until the dal is soft.
- Drain excess water and blend the dal mixture until mostly smooth with some chunks. Set aside.
4. **Prepare the Salt Fish**
- Boil salt fish in water for 15 minutes.
- Drain and rinse with cold water, then flake with your hands. Set aside.
5. **Combine Filling Ingredients**
- In a pan, heat a little oil and sauté the diced onion until translucent.
- Add the dal puree, flaked salt fish, and spring onions. Mix well and cook for a few minutes. Set aside to cool.
6. **Shape the Dough**
- Once the dough has doubled in size, turn it out onto a floured surface and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a ball and place on a tray. Cover with a clean tea towel and let proof for 30 minutes.
7. **Assemble the Dal Pies**
- Flatten each dough ball to about 1 cm thick.
- Place a small handful of filling in the center.
- Bring the edges together and seal tightly, then flatten slightly.
8. **Fry the Dal Pies**
- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan.
- Fry the pies in batches for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- Remove and drain on kitchen paper.
🍽️ How to Serve
Serve warm as a snack or appetizer. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a side of hot sauce for an extra kick.
💡 Pro Tips
- Ensure the dough is well-kneaded for a lighter texture.
- Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of scotch bonnet pepper in the filling.
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- For a vegetarian option, omit the salt fish and add more vegetables to the filling.
🔥 Why You’ll Love This
These dal pies are not only delicious but also easy to make. The combination of soft dough and flavorful filling makes them an irresistible treat that showcases the vibrant flavors of Caribbean cuisine. Enjoy them fresh out of the pan for the best experience!