Guyana Bara Recipe: A Tempting Guyanese Appetizer

Introduction

Guyana bara, a popular street food in Guyana, is a delightful snack enjoyed by many. It is a savory and fried dough, often served with channa (chickpeas) and a variety of chutneys. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a perfect appetizer or snack. If you’re looking to add a Guyanese flair to your next gathering, this bara recipe is a must-try.

Ingredients

To make Guyana bara, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup water
• Oil for frying

Directions

Follow these simple steps to prepare delicious Guyana bara:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cumin, turmeric, and salt.
2. Gradually add water to the dry ingredients, mixing to form a smooth dough. The dough should be soft but not sticky. Add more flour if necessary.
3. Divide the dough into small portions and shape them into balls. Flatten each ball to about ¼ inch thickness, creating small discs.
4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the bara discs, a few at a time, and fry until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
5. Remove the bara from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. Serve the freshly fried Guyana bara with channa (chickpeas) and your favorite chutneys or sauces.

FAQ

Q: Can I make the bara dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the bara dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to a day before frying.

Q: Can I freeze the cooked bara?
A: While it’s best to enjoy Guyana bara fresh, you can freeze any leftovers. Simply allow them to cool, then store them in an airtight container. To reheat, place them in the oven until they are warm and crispy again.

Q: What are some recommended chutneys to enjoy with Guyana bara?
A: Tamarind sauce, mango chutney, and pepper sauce are popular accompaniments for Guyana bara. They add a delightful mix of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors to the dish.

With this simple recipe, you can bring the flavors of Guyanese cuisine to your table. Guyana bara is a crowd-pleaser and a fantastic way to introduce your friends and family to the delicious flavors of Guyanese street food.