Sides
Chereh (Steamed Couscous with Baobab Leaf Sauce)
The Quirky Foodster Team
Ingredients
- 300 g (2 cups) fine millet or corn couscous
- 500 ml (2 cups) water, divided
- 30 g (1 oz) dried baobab leaf powder
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
Method
- Sprinkle the couscous with a little water and rub between your palms to separate the grains, then leave to swell for 10 minutes.
- Steam the couscous over simmering water for 20 minutes, fluffing with a fork halfway through.
- Meanwhile, whisk the baobab leaf powder into the remaining water in a saucepan, add the oil and salt, and simmer gently for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Fluff the steamed couscous once more and serve topped with the baobab leaf sauce.
Introduction: Chereh is a fine, steamed millet or corn couscous served with a thin baobab leaf sauce, a traditional Gambian side that showcases the widespread use of the baobab tree's leaves as a thickening, nutrient-rich green.
Cultural Background: Chereh is a fine, steamed millet or corn couscous served with a thin baobab leaf sauce, a traditional Gambian side that showcases the widespread use of the baobab tree's leaves as a thickening, nutrient-rich green.
Tips: Steaming rather than boiling keeps the couscous grains light and separate. Whisk the baobab powder in gradually to avoid lumps in the sauce.
Variations: Stir a spoon of peanut butter into the baobab sauce for a nuttier version. Serve alongside soured milk for a traditional cooling contrast.
Storage: Refrigerate couscous and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Steam the couscous briefly to refresh; warm the sauce gently on the stovetop.
Nutrition: Approx. 260 kcal, 6g protein, 8g fat, 42g carbohydrate per serving.
FAQs:
Q: What does baobab leaf taste like?
A: It has a mild, slightly tangy, spinach-like flavour and acts as a natural thickener, similar in effect to okra.
Q: Can I find baobab leaf powder outside the Gambia?
A: It is increasingly available in African grocery stores and online as 'lalo' or baobab leaf powder.
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