Traditional Senegalese Thiakry Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups of couscous
  • 2 cups of vanilla yogurt
  • 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup of sugar
  • 1 cup of water
  • 1/2 cup of raisins
  • 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Steps and instructions

  1. Start by cooking the couscous. Bring the water to a boil in a medium-sized pot, then add the couscous. Cover and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed.
  2. While the couscous is cooling, prepare the sweet mixture. Combine the vanilla yogurt, sweetened condensed milk, and sugar in a large bowl. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
  3. Add the cooled couscous to the sweet mixture. Stir until the couscous is well coated.
  4. Add the raisins, nutmeg, and vanilla extract to the mix. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
  5. Let the Thiakry chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. This will allow the flavors to fully develop.
  6. Serve chilled, and enjoy your homemade Thiakry!

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use different types of couscous, such as whole wheat or pearl couscous, for a variation in texture.
  • Add chopped nuts, such as almonds or pistachios, for additional crunch and flavor.
  • Experiment with different dried fruits, like cranberries or chopped apricots, instead of raisins.
  • Replace the nutmeg with cinnamon or cardamom for a different spice profile.
  • For a creamier texture, substitute some or all of the vanilla yogurt with coconut milk or almond milk.
  • Add a splash of citrus juice (such as orange or lemon) to add a refreshing tang to the Thiakry.
  • For a healthier option, use Greek yogurt instead of regular vanilla yogurt.
  • If you prefer it less sweet, reduce the amount of sugar or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.

Recipe overview

Thiakry is a traditional Senegalese dessert that is both delicious and easy to prepare. Essentially a sweet couscous pudding, Thiakry (also known as Degue) is a delightful combination of couscous, yogurt, sweetened condensed milk, sugar, and spices. Raisins are added for an extra layer of texture and sweetness. The process of making Thiakry is fairly simple and straightforward, involving the cooking of couscous and the preparation of a sweet yogurt mixture, which are then combined and chilled to allow the flavors to meld together. The result is a rich, creamy dessert that is not only satisfying but also refreshing, making it perfect for any occasion. This recipe serves around 4-6 people and takes roughly 3 hours to make, including chilling time in the refrigerator, and requires basic kitchen utensils and ingredients that are easily available in most pantries. Get ready to wow your guests with this unique and tasty dessert!

Common questions

  1. How long does it take to cook the couscous? Cook the couscous for about 10 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed.
  2. Can I use plain yogurt instead of vanilla yogurt? Yes, you can use plain yogurt if you prefer. However, the vanilla yogurt adds a nice flavor to the Thiakry.
  3. Do I have to use sweetened condensed milk? Yes, sweetened condensed milk is an important ingredient for the sweetness and creaminess of the Thiakry. Substituting it may alter the taste and texture.
  4. Can I reduce the amount of sugar? Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar to your taste. Start with the recommended amount and add more or less as desired.
  5. Can I add other fruits or nuts to the Thiakry? Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Thiakry by adding your favorite fruits or nuts. Chopped mangoes, pineapple, or almonds can be delicious additions.
  6. How long should I chill the Thiakry before serving? It is recommended to chill the Thiakry in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the dessert to set.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the ingredients together.
  • Pot - A medium-sized pot to cook the couscous.
  • Spatula - A utensil for stirring and combining the ingredients.
  • Refrigerator - A refrigerator to chill the Thiakry before serving.
  • Serving Bowls - Bowls to serve the Thiakry in.
  • Spoons - Utensils for serving the Thiakry.

Origin stories

Thiakry, also known as Degue, is a traditional dessert from Senegal. This sweet dish is often enjoyed during social gatherings and festive events. It has a unique texture due to the combination of couscous and yogurt, and it's a real treat for those with a sweet tooth. Interestingly, this dish is also popular in other West African countries, each with their own variation. In Senegal, it's common to add nutmeg and vanilla for an extra burst of flavor. This dessert not only offers a delightful taste but also provides a glimpse into the rich culinary culture of Senegal.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.