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Aïch bi Halib

The Quirky Foodster Team

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10 min
Prep
12 min
Cook
4
Servings

Ingredients

  • Millet flour — 1 cup (140 g / 5 oz)
  • Milk — 3 cups (720 ml / 24 fl oz)
  • Water — 1 cup (240 ml / 8 fl oz)
  • Sugar — 3 tbsp
  • Dates, chopped — 4 (optional)
  • Of salt — pinch

Method

  1. Whisk the millet flour into the water to form a smooth slurry.
  2. Bring the milk to a gentle simmer in a saucepan.
  3. Pour in the millet slurry, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
  4. Cook over low heat, stirring frequently, for 10–12 minutes until thickened.
  5. Stir in the sugar, salt and chopped dates if using.
  6. Serve warm.

Introduction: A smooth millet porridge cooked in milk until thick, the classic breakfast of Mauritania’s Saharan and Sahelian communities.

Cultural Background: Millet has long sustained Mauritania’s mix of Moorish and West African communities, and this simple milk porridge remains a daily breakfast staple, often sweetened lightly and sometimes flavoured with dates.

Tips: Whisk the flour and water into a smooth slurry before adding to hot milk to avoid lumps. Stir often near the end, as the porridge thickens quickly.

Variations: Use sorghum flour in place of millet for a different texture. Top with a drizzle of honey instead of sugar.

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk, stirring, until smooth and warmed through.

Nutrition: Per serving (approx.): 230 kcal, 7 g protein, 6 g fat, 37 g carbohydrate.

FAQs:

Q: Can I make this with water instead of milk?

A: Yes, though the texture and richness will be lighter.

Q: Is millet flour easy to find?

A: It’s available at African and Middle Eastern grocers, or can be ground