Page 92 - Msingi Afrika Magazine Issue 9

AFRIKA IS GOD'S

Algerian KALANTIKA

Chioma Phillips

Kalantika, also known as Karanteta, Karantita, Karantika, Guarantita or Garantita is a popular Algerian snack that is
usually served hot.

Kalantika is made from chickpea flour, salt, pepper, water and oil (it sometimes includes olives and cheese) which are
combined together and poured into a baking dish, covered with beaten egg and baked for about an hour – depending
on the consistency desired.

The result is a golden brown tasty soft treat that is sprinkled with cumin and harissa (a hot chilli paste) and eaten on its
own or with bread.

The dish is said to have originated in Spain, where it is called Caliantetorta. The name Kalantika is also said to come
from the Spanish word, Calentita which means ‘all hot’.

According to legend, Kalantika was invented in the fort of Santa Cruz by Spanish soldiers who didn’t have sufficient
food resources. They would have mixed the rest of their chickpea stock and it was the appearance of the calentica.
(kazirecipe.wordpress.com)

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