Trinidadian Cornmeal Cou-Cou
A staple side dish, Trinidadian Cornmeal Cou-Cou (or Coo Coo) is a thick, creamy porridge made from fine cornmeal, often enriched with coconut milk, and flavored with aromatics like onion, garlic, and pimento peppers. It's a comforting and versatile accompaniment to savory stews and curries.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 cup Fine cornmeal
- 2 cups Water
- 1 cup Coconut milk (full fat)
- 0.25 cup Onion(finely chopped)
- 1 tbsp Garlic(minced)
- 2 small Pimento peppers(finely chopped (or red bell pepper))
- 0.5 cup Okra(sliced (fresh or frozen))
- 1 tbsp Butter or oil
- 0.5 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.25 tsp Black pepper(or to taste)
- 1 tsp Thyme(fresh, chopped (optional))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a medium saucepan, heat the butter or oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped pimento peppers. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- 2
Add the sliced okra and sauté for another 2 minutes. If using fresh thyme, add it now.
- 3
Pour in the water and coconut milk. Add salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- 4
Gradually add the fine cornmeal to the boiling liquid, a little at a time, while stirring vigorously with a whisk or a cou-cou stick to prevent lumps. Continue to stir constantly as the mixture thickens.
- 5
Reduce the heat to low and continue to cook, stirring frequently, for about 15-20 minutes. The cou-cou should become very thick and start to pull away from the sides of the pot, forming a cohesive ball.
- 6
Once the cou-cou has reached a stiff but soft consistency, remove it from the heat. Grease a bowl or mold with butter or oil, and scoop the cou-cou into it. Smooth the top with a buttered spoon.
- 7
Allow the cou-cou to cool slightly before inverting it onto a serving plate. Serve warm.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use fine cornmeal for a smoother texture. Coarse cornmeal will result in a grittier cou-cou.
- ✓Constant stirring is key to achieving a lump-free cou-cou.
- ✓If the mixture becomes too thick, add a splash more water or coconut milk.
- ✓Pimento peppers add a distinct Trinidadian flavor; if unavailable, red bell pepper can be used as a substitute.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Some recipes include diced pumpkin or shredded carrots for added color and flavor.
- For a richer cou-cou, use only coconut milk and omit the water.
- Some versions omit okra, focusing solely on the cornmeal and seasonings.