Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups cornmeal
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Mixing bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of cornmeal with 2 cups of cold water. Mix well until there are no lumps.
3. Slowly pour the cornmeal mixture into the boiling water, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon.
4. Reduce the heat to low and continue stirring until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pot. This should take about 15-20 minutes.
5. Add the frozen peas, diced ham, chopped onion, minced garlic, thyme leaves, and butter to the pot. Stir well to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Continue cooking the cou-cou for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are cooked and the ham is heated through.
8. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium-low heat
Serving size:
- 4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Protein: 15g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Cornmeal can be substituted with polenta or grits.
- Frozen peas can be substituted with fresh or canned peas.
- Ham can be substituted with bacon or sausage.
Variations:
- Add chopped bell peppers or hot peppers for extra flavor and heat.
- Use chicken or beef instead of ham for a different protein option.
- Add coconut milk for a creamier texture.
Tips and Tricks:
- Stir the cou-cou constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Use a non-stick pot to prevent sticking and burning.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Storage Instructions:
- Store leftover cou-cou in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- Reheat the cou-cou in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the cou-cou in a bowl or on a plate with your favorite side dishes.
Garnishes:
- Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro.
Pairings:
- Serve with grilled or roasted meats, fish, or vegetables.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fried plantains
- Steamed vegetables
- Salad
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cou-cou is too thick, add more water or broth to thin it out.
- If the cou-cou is too thin, cook it for a few more minutes until it thickens.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to cook the ham and peas to an internal temperature of 165°F to prevent foodborne illness.
Food History:
- Cou-cou is a traditional dish from Barbados, made with cornmeal and okra.
Flavor Profiles:
- Savory, slightly sweet, and creamy.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the cou-cou as a main dish or as a side dish.
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Region: Barbadian