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Street Food

Duket (Roasted Corn on the Cob)

The Quirky Foodster Team

(0)
5 minutes
Prep
15 minutes
Cook
4
Servings

Ingredients

  • 4 whole corn cobs, husks removed
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp mitmita or berbere spice blend (optional)
  • 1 lime or lemon, cut into wedges (optional)

Method

  1. Preheat a charcoal grill or griddle pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Brush each corn cob lightly with oil.
  3. Grill the corn, turning frequently with tongs, for 12-15 minutes until charred in spots and tender throughout.
  4. Remove from heat and sprinkle with salt and mitmita or berbere if using.
  5. Serve hot, with a wedge of lime or lemon on the side if desired.

Introduction: Roasted corn on the cob is a familiar and beloved street food across Ethiopian towns and cities, sold by vendors roasting whole cobs over charcoal braziers, often rubbed with a little salt and chilli, especially popular during the corn harvest season.

Cultural Background: Roasted corn on the cob is a familiar and beloved street food across Ethiopian towns and cities, sold by vendors roasting whole cobs over charcoal braziers, often rubbed with a little salt and chilli, especially popular during the corn harvest season.

Tips: Turn the corn regularly for even charring rather than leaving it in one position. A charcoal grill gives the most authentic smoky flavour, though a stovetop griddle works well indoors.

Variations: Some vendors soak the corn briefly in salted water before grilling for extra seasoning. A butter baste can be brushed on partway through grilling for a richer flavour.

Storage: Best eaten immediately while hot; not suited to storage.

Reheating: Reheat briefly on a hot pan or grill to restore some char and warmth.

FAQs:

Q: What spice is traditionally sprinkled on Duket?
A: A pinch of salt is most common; some vendors also offer mitmita or berbere for those who want extra heat.

Q: When is Duket most popular?
A: It is especially popular during and just after the corn harvest season, when fresh cobs are widely available from street vendors.