Aïch Al Eid

Name: Aïch Al Eid
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 5
Cuisine: Mauritania
Ingredients: Millet flour — 1.5 cups (210 g / 7.5 oz); Milk — 4 cups (960 ml / 32 fl oz); Sugar — 1/2 cup (100 g / 3.5 oz); Raisins — 1/4 cup (35 g / 1.25 oz); Dates, chopped — 6; Ground cinnamon — 1/2 tsp; Butter — 2 tbsp; Chopped almonds, to garnish

The Quirky Foodster Team

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15 min

Prep

20 min

Cook

Servings

Ingredients

Millet flour — 1.5 cups (210 g / 7.5 oz)
Milk — 4 cups (960 ml / 32 fl oz)
Sugar — 1/2 cup (100 g / 3.5 oz)
Raisins — 1/4 cup (35 g / 1.25 oz)
Dates, chopped — 6
Ground cinnamon — 1/2 tsp
Butter — 2 tbsp
Chopped almonds, to garnish

Method

Whisk the millet flour into a small amount of the milk to form a smooth slurry.
Bring the remaining milk to a gentle simmer in a saucepan.
Pour in the millet slurry, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
Cook over low heat, stirring frequently, for 12–15 minutes until thickened.
Stir in the sugar, raisins, chopped dates, cinnamon and butter, and continue cooking for a further 5 minutes.
Spoon into serving bowls and garnish with chopped almonds while still warm.

Introduction: A festive, sweetened millet pudding studded with raisins and dates, prepared for Eid and other joyful family occasions.

Cultural Background: This richer, celebratory take on the everyday millet porridge is reserved for special days, sweetened generously and dressed up with dried fruit to mark the joy of Eid gatherings.

Tips: Stir often as the pudding thickens to prevent it catching on the bottom of the pan. Adjust sweetness to taste, as dates and raisins already add natural sugar.

Variations: Add a pinch of saffron for a more festive golden colour. Top with a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.

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.): 320 kcal, 8 g protein, 10 g fat, 50 g carbohydrate.

FAQs:

Q: How is this different from everyday aïch?

A: It is sweeter and enriched with dried fruit, butter and

Q: Can this be made ahead for a gathering?

A: Yes, it can be made a few hours ahead and gently