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Desserts

Sweet Cornmeal Pudding (Doukounou)

The Quirky Foodster Team

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Ingredients

  • 250 g (1 1/3 cups) fine cornmeal
  • 400 ml (1 3/4 cups) coconut milk
  • 150 g (3/4 cup) sugar
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 50 g (1/3 cup) raisins
  • Banana leaves or aluminium foil, for wrapping
  • Kitchen twine

Method

  1. In a large bowl, mix the cornmeal, coconut milk, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and vanilla into a thick, smooth batter.
  2. Stir in the raisins.
  3. Soften the banana leaves briefly over a flame or in hot water to make them pliable (or use foil if unavailable).
  4. Spoon a portion of the batter onto the centre of each leaf square, fold into a tight packet, and tie securely with kitchen twine.
  5. Arrange the packets in a steamer basket over simmering water.
  6. Steam for 45-50 minutes until the pudding is firm and set.
  7. Let cool slightly before unwrapping and serving warm or at room temperature.

Introduction: A steamed sweet cornmeal pudding wrapped in banana leaves, doukounou reflects African culinary influence and is often prepared for special occasions and festivals, offering a dense, custard-like texture with warm spice notes.

Cultural Background: A steamed sweet cornmeal pudding wrapped in banana leaves, doukounou reflects African culinary influence and is often prepared for special occasions and festivals, offering a dense, custard-like texture with warm spice notes.

Tips: Do not overfill each packet; the pudding expands slightly as it steams, so leave some room to fold and seal properly.

Variations: Grated fresh coconut can be added to the batter for extra texture. Some versions use taro or sweet potato in place of part of the cornmeal.

Storage: Store wrapped packets in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating: Re-steam for 10 minutes, or microwave unwrapped for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition: Approx. 240 kcal, 3 g protein, 8 g fat, 40 g carbohydrate, 2 g fibre per serving.

FAQs:

Q: Can I make this without banana leaves?

A: Yes, aluminium foil works as a substitute, though banana leaves impart a subtle, traditional aroma.

Q: Is doukounou similar to Jamaican blue drawers?

A: They are related steamed cornmeal puddings from the wider Caribbean tradition, though seasoning and wrapping differ.

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