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Ga Kenkey (Fermented Corn Dumplings)

The Quirky Foodster Team

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Ingredients

  • 1 kg (7 cups) white corn dough (fermented maize dough)
  • Dried corn husks, soaked in warm water
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • Water, as needed

Method

  1. Divide the fermented corn dough in half. Cook one half in a pot with a little water over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens into a stiff paste (this is the 'aflata').
  2. Mix the cooked aflata back into the remaining raw dough with salt until evenly combined.
  3. Shape the mixture into balls and wrap each tightly in soaked corn husks, tying securely.
  4. Arrange the wrapped balls in a steamer and steam over boiling water for 1.5-2 hours until firm and cooked through.
  5. Unwrap and serve with fried fish, shito pepper sauce and sliced onion.

Introduction: Ga kenkey is a fermented maize dough dumpling wrapped and steamed in corn husks, originating from the Ga people of Accra.

Cultural Background: Ga kenkey is a fermented maize dough dumpling wrapped and steamed in corn husks, originating from the Ga people of Accra. Tangy and dense, it functions as a staple starch much like bread, traditionally eaten with fried fish, pepper sauce and a slice of raw onion.

Tips: The dough must ferment for at least 2-3 days beforehand to develop kenkey's signature tangy flavour.

Variations: Fante kenkey, wrapped in plantain leaves instead of corn husks, is a milder-tasting regional variant.

Storage: Refrigerate wrapped kenkey for up to 5 days; it also freezes well for up to a month.

Reheating: Re-steam for 15-20 minutes until heated through, still wrapped in its husk.

Nutrition: Calories: 210 kcal, Protein: 5 g, Carbs: 44 g, Fat: 1 g, Fibre: 3 g

FAQs:

Q: Can I buy fermented corn dough ready-made?

A: Yes, many West African grocery stores sell pre-fermented corn dough specifically for kenkey and banku.

Q: What is the difference between Ga and Fante kenkey?

A: Ga kenkey is wrapped in dried corn husks and has a firmer, tangier profile, while Fante kenkey is wrapped in plantain leaves and is softer and milder.

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