Cou-cou is a beloved Caribbean dish, particularly popular in Barbados, that pairs creamy, fluffy cornmeal with tender, slightly mucilaginous okra. This comforting side dish offers a delightful contrast in textures, with the smooth, buttery cornmeal balancing the earthy, green flavor of the okra. A hint of fresh hot pepper adds a gentle warmth, making it the perfect companion for grilled fish, especially flying fish, or roasted meats. Simple to prepare with pantry staples, it brings a taste of island tradition to your dinner table.
Cou-Cou
Description
Cou-cou is a beloved Caribbean dish, particularly popular in Barbados, that pairs creamy, fluffy cornmeal with tender, slightly mucilaginous okra. This comforting side dish offers a delightful contrast in textures, with the smooth, buttery cornmeal balancing the earthy, green flavor of the okra. A hint of fresh hot pepper adds a gentle warmth, making it the perfect companion for grilled fish, especially flying fish, or roasted meats. Simple to prepare with pantry staples, it brings a taste of island tradition to your dinner table.Ingredients
Directions
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Wash the okras, remove the stems, and slice them diagonally into 1/4-inch rings.
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In a large saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a rolling boil over high heat.
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Add the sliced okra, minced hot pepper, and salt to the boiling water.
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Reduce heat slightly and simmer for about 10 minutes until the okra is tender but still bright green.
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While the okra cooks, sift the cornmeal into a medium bowl to remove lumps.
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Gradually add the remaining 3 cups of cold water to the cornmeal, whisking continuously until smooth and free of lumps.
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Once the okra is cooked, remove the saucepan from heat and pour the cornmeal mixture into the pot with the okra and cooking liquid.
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Return the pot to medium heat and stir constantly with a wooden spoon.
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Continue stirring and cooking for 5-10 minutes until the mixture thickens significantly and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
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Turn the hot cou-cou out onto a serving plate or onto individual plates.
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Immediately spread the butter on top so it melts into the warm cornmeal.
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Serve hot alongside grilled fish or meats.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 649.9kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 12.3g19%
- Saturated Fat 5.1g26%
- Cholesterol 16.1mg6%
- Sodium 97596.4mg4067%
- Total Carbohydrate 128.5g43%
- Dietary Fiber 24.6g99%
- Sugars 8.1g
- Protein 19.3g39%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.