How to Make Nigerian Gala (Meat Snack) at Home – A Step-by-Step Recipe

Nigerian Gala is one of the most beloved meat snacks in Nigeria. Found in traffic jams, sold by street vendors, and enjoyed by millions, Gala has become synonymous with quick and tasty on-the-go snacking. This flaky, meat-filled pastry is a perfect combination of a soft, slightly sweet outer crust and a rich, seasoned meat filling.

If you’ve ever craved the authentic taste of Nigerian Gala and wondered how to make it from scratch, you’re in the right place! This homemade recipe will guide you through creating the perfect Gala snack in your kitchen.

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What Is Nigerian Gala?

Gala is a Nigerian-style meat pie, similar to sausage rolls but with a unique flavor profile. The snack consists of a tender, flaky dough encasing a well-seasoned beef filling. Traditionally sold in traffic alongside chilled soft drinks, Gala is a must-have for many Nigerians during long road trips or commutes.

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Ingredients for Nigerian Gala

For the Dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
• 1 egg
• ½ cup cold milk or water

For the Meat Filling:

• 250g ground beef
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 seasoning cube
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a firmer filling)
• 1 egg (for sealing and egg wash)

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Step-by-Step Guide to Making Nigerian Gala

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Filling

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the ground beef and stir-fry until browned.
4. Season with thyme, curry powder, black pepper, salt, and the seasoning cube.
5. Stir well and cook for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked.
6. Remove from heat, let it cool slightly, then mix in breadcrumbs (if using). Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
2. Add the cold butter and rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
3. Beat the egg and add it to the mixture.
4. Gradually add cold milk or water while mixing until the dough forms.
5. Knead gently for about 2 minutes until smooth.
6. Wrap the dough in cling film and refrigerate for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Gala Rolls

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness.
3. Cut the dough into long rectangular strips.
4. Spoon the meat filling onto one side of each strip, then fold the other side over.
5. Seal the edges by pressing with a fork or brushing with a little beaten egg.

Step 4: Bake the Gala Rolls

1. Arrange the rolls on the prepared baking tray.
2. Brush the top with egg wash for a golden finish.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.

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Tips for the Perfect Homemade Nigerian Gala

• Use cold butter and milk for a flakier dough.
• Do not overfill the pastry to prevent bursting while baking.
• Let the meat filling cool before using to avoid a soggy crust.
• For extra crunch, add a small amount of cornstarch to the meat mixture.

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What to Serve with Nigerian Gala

Gala is best enjoyed with a chilled drink! The classic Nigerian pairing is Gala and La Casera, a fizzy apple drink, but you can also enjoy it with fruit juice, soda, or even a cup of tea.

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Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked Gala rolls for up to a month. When ready to eat, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.