Alouda (Alouda)

Name: Alouda (Alouda)
Prep time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mauritius
Ingredients: Basil seeds — 2 tbsp (sabja seeds); Milk, chilled — 3 cups (720 ml / 24 fl oz); Rose syrup or vanilla syrup — 3 tbsp; Sweetened condensed milk — 2 tbsp; A scoop of vanilla ice cream (optional)

The Quirky Foodster Team

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20 min

Prep

0 min

Cook

Ingredients

Basil seeds — 2 tbsp (sabja seeds)
Milk, chilled — 3 cups (720 ml / 24 fl oz)
Rose syrup or vanilla syrup — 3 tbsp
Sweetened condensed milk — 2 tbsp
A scoop of vanilla ice cream (optional)

Method

Soak the basil seeds in a small bowl of water for 15–20 minutes until they swell and develop a gel-like coating; drain excess water.
Combine the chilled milk, rose or vanilla syrup and condensed milk in a jug, stirring well.
Divide the soaked basil seeds among tall glasses.
Pour the flavoured milk over the seeds.
Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired, and serve immediately with a spoon and straw.

Introduction: A creamy, fragrant milk drink thickened with basil seeds and flavoured with rose or vanilla syrup, one of Mauritius’s most beloved refreshments.

Cultural Background: Alouda draws on falooda traditions brought by Indian settlers, evolving into a distinctly Mauritian favourite sold at street stalls, especially popular on warm evenings alongside a plate of street food.

Tips: Soak the basil seeds thoroughly, as they need time to fully swell and develop their characteristic gel coating. Serve very cold for the most refreshing result.

Variations: Use different flavoured syrups such as almond or pistachio for variety. Add a few drops of rose water for extra fragrance.

Storage: Best assembled and served fresh; basil seeds can be pre-soaked and refrigerated for up to 2 days.

Reheating: This drink is served cold and is not reheated.

Nutrition: Per serving (approx.): 220 kcal, 7 g protein, 8 g fat, 32 g carbohydrate.

FAQs:

Q: What are basil seeds?

A: Small seeds from a basil variety that swell into a gel-like texture when

Q: Can I make alouda without ice cream?

A: Yes, it’s delicious on its own with just the flavoured milk