Lakh Dar
Lakh Dar is a traditional Mauritanian sweet couscous dish, often prepared for celebrations and special occasions. It features a delicate semolina base sweetened with honey or sugar and flavored with spices and dried fruits.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Fine semolina
- 500 ml Water(approximately, for cooking couscous)
- 150 g Honey(or granulated sugar, adjust to taste)
- 100 g Butter
- 50 g Raisins
- 50 g Almonds(blanched and slivered, toasted)
- 1 tsp Cinnamon
- 0.5 tsp Cardamom(ground)
- 1 tbsp Rose water(optional, for fragrance)
- a pinch Salt
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the couscous according to package directions, typically by steaming or soaking. Ensure it is light and fluffy.
- 2
In a large bowl, combine the cooked couscous with butter. Toss until the butter is melted and evenly distributed.
- 3
Gently stir in the honey (or sugar), raisins, cinnamon, cardamom, and a pinch of salt. If using, add the rose water.
- 4
Continue to toss gently until all ingredients are well combined and the couscous is evenly coated.
- 5
Transfer the Lakh Dar to a serving platter. Sprinkle the toasted slivered almonds over the top.
- 6
Serve warm as a sweet main dish or a dessert.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use good quality semolina for the best texture.
- ✓Don't overmix the couscous after adding the wet ingredients, as it can become gummy.
- ✓Adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more or less honey/sugar.
- ✓Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor and crunch.
🔄 Variations
- Add other dried fruits like dates or apricots.
- Incorporate a small amount of orange blossom water for a different floral note.
- Serve with a side of sweetened milk or yogurt.