| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 206 | 8.2g | 4.4g | 27.8g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 6.1g | 1.6g | 5.3g | 0.29g |
There’s a certain joy in creating a dish that captures more than one aspect of your culinary heritage, and that’s exactly what my Homemade Black Pepper Crackers bring to the table. Effortlessly fusing elements of Southern comfort with a hint of West African heat, these crackers are more than an appetizer; they are a reflection of my cultural melting pot.
Cooking as a Bridge Between Cultures
Having been raised in Atlanta by Nigerian parents, food for me has always served as a bridge between cultures. Just as the languages, traditions, and tales of our forefathers help shape who we are, so too can the dishes they passed down. With the wholesome flavour of the all-purpose flour reminiscent of Southern biscuits, and the piquant note of the black pepper mirroring the spice-filled palettes of West African cuisine, these crackers encapsulate my Afro-Southern culinary merge. The addition of dried fruit adds a delightful sweetness that elevates the savoury balance, much like the tangy chutneys commonly found in Nigerian cuisine.
Health Benefits of a Little Spice
Furthermore, these Homemade Black Pepper Crackers aren’t just flavorful; they’re good for you, too. The star ingredient, black pepper, is more than just a taste enhancer. According to Healthline, black pepper is packed with antioxidants, has anti-inflammatory properties, and even aids digestion. And if you opt for whole grain flour instead of all-purpose, you get the added benefits of fiber and other essential nutrients.
In spite of my hectic career as a lawyer, maintaining a balanced diet is critical. And these crackers, with their burst of flavor and surprising health benefits, find their way into my midday snack or as an accompaniment to my favorite soups and salads. If you, like me, have a soft spot for cheese, try pairing these with a rich, creamy Brie or a sharp Cheddar. The bite of the pepper and the sweetness of the dried fruit blend beautifully with the richness of the cheese, making it an indulgent, but balanced treat.
Flexibility is key when it comes to food pairing, and these crackers are versatile. They work incredibly well alongside a hearty Southern Corn and Crawfish Chowder, or even an earthy Nigerian Efo Riro. Whether enjoyed with a rustic soup, a gourmet cheese board, or simply on their own, I promise you, they will not disappoint.
Cooking is my love language, and through recipes like these Homemade Black Pepper Crackers, I hope to inspire you to explore your own culinary roots and celebrate the diversity that makes us unique.
What You’ll Need
- 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (raspberry/ blueberry/ currants), chopped
Method
Step One
Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, salt, instant yeast, freshly ground black pepper, and sugar in a large bowl.
Step Two
Add the melted unsalted butter and water into the flour mixture. Stir everything together until a dough begins to form. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it is too dry, add a little more water.
Step Three
Add the chopped dried fruit to the dough, kneading it well over a lightly floured surface, until the dried fruit is evenly incorporated.
Step Four
Roll out the dough thinly, to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut the dough into 2-inch squares, or use a cookie cutter to create your desired shape.
Step Five
Place the crackers onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
Step Six
Allow the crackers to cool before serving. Enjoy your Homemade Black Pepper Crackers on their own, or pair them with your favorite cheese for a delicious snack.
