Authentic Tibetan Shapale Recipe: Fill Your Table with Flavor

Ingredients

500 grams of ground beef
250 grams of finely chopped onions
2 teaspoons of cumin powder
2 teaspoons of coriander powder
1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
2 teaspoons of chili powder
1 teaspoon of black pepper
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
2 cups of all-purpose flour
Water as needed to knead the dough
Salt to taste
Vegetable oil for frying

Steps and instructions

In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, chopped onions, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, chili powder, black pepper, and salt. Set aside for the flavors to meld.
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with water and a pinch of salt. Knead until it forms a smooth, elastic dough. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
Divide the dough into small balls. Using a rolling pin, roll out each ball into a thin circle.
Place a spoonful of the meat mixture in the center of each circle.
Fold the dough over the filling to form a semi-circle. Press the edges to seal securely and make a decorative pattern with a fork. Repeat this step until all dough and filling are used.
Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot enough, carefully place the Shapales in the pan.
Fry the Shapale on both sides until they turn golden brown. Ensure the meat is fully cooked and the dough is crispy.
Remove the Shapale from the pan and drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce.

Tools for making

Large bowl - for mixing the ground beef and spices
Rolling pin - for rolling out the dough into thin circles
Fork - for sealing the edges of the Shapales and creating a decorative pattern
Frying pan - for frying the Shapales
Paper towel - for draining excess oil from the fried Shapales

Recipe variations

Use ground lamb or chicken instead of ground beef for a different flavor.
Replace the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier alternative.
Add minced garlic or ginger to the meat mixture for extra flavor.
Include diced vegetables like bell peppers or carrots in the filling for added texture and nutrition.
For a spicier version, increase the amount of chili powder or add a dash of hot sauce.
Make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground meat with crumbled tofu or cooked lentils.
Experiment with different spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
Try baking the shapales instead of frying for a healthier option.
Serve the shapales with a yogurt-based dipping sauce or a spicy tomato chutney.
Add herbs like cilantro or mint to the meat mixture for a burst of freshness.

Recipe overview

Shapale, a popular Tibetan street food, is a hearty and delicious meat pie that delivers a burst of flavors with each bite. This recipe uses a combination of minced meat, aromatic spices, and a crispy dough casing, fried to perfection to create a snack or meal that's truly satisfying. As you navigate through this recipe, you'll learn how to prepare the flavorful filling and how to knead and roll the dough. The process of sealing the pies and frying them might require a bit of practice, but the end result is absolutely worth the effort. Expect a crispy exterior with a juicy, flavorful filling. Enjoy these Shapale hot from the skillet with your favorite dipping sauce.

Common questions

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground lamb, chicken, or turkey for a different flavor.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before rolling it out.
Can I freeze the Shapales?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked Shapales for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator before frying.
Can I bake the Shapales instead of frying?
Traditionally, Shapales are deep-fried for a crispy texture. However, if you prefer a healthier option, you can brush the Shapales with oil and bake them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) until golden brown.
What can I serve with Shapales?
Shapales are often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. They pair well with spicy dipping sauces, such as tomato chutney or mint yogurt sauce. They can also be served with a side of salad or pickles.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the ground beef and spices.
Rolling pin - Used to roll out the dough into thin circles.
Frying Pan - A pan to fry the Shapales until golden brown.
Paper Towels - To drain excess oil from the fried Shapales.

Origin stories

Shapale, these delightful deep-fried meat pies, hail from the Tibetan culinary tradition. Cooking in the high altitudes of Tibet has historically been a challenge, with the scarcity of vegetables and a harsh, cold climate. Thus, Tibetan cuisine largely revolves around the use of yak meat and dairy, barley, and very few spices. Shapale, however, is a pleasant exception. This dish, stuffed with spiced beef or mutton, is a beloved street food in Tibet and neighboring regions. It brings warmth and joy to those braving the cold mountain air. The use of varied spices in the filling showcases the influences of neighboring Indian and Nepalese cuisines, a testament to the intermingling of cultures along the ancient Silk Road. The name 'Shapale' itself roughly translates to 'meat bread' in Tibetan, underscoring its role as a hearty, filling meal for the hardy highlanders. With every crispy bite into a Shapale, one gets a taste of the resilience and vibrancy of Tibetan culture.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.