Djenkoumè (Savory Tomato Cornmeal Cake) - African Recipe
Originating from Benin, West Africa, Djenkoumè is a hearty, savory cornmeal cake steeped in a rich tomato sauce. This unique dish is traditionally served during communal gatherings and celebrations due to its ability to feed large crowds. Its vibrant, warm hues mirror the exuberance of these occasions. The dish is usually presented in individual portions molded into small mounds. Djenkoumè is often accompanied by grilled fish or meat and a side of spicy pepper sauce. The eating custom involves using your fingers to pinch a small portion of Djenkoumè and dip it into the accompanying sauce. This dish not only satisfies hunger, but also fosters unity and shared experiences.
Ingredients
- 500g (approx. 4 cups) Maize flour (cornmeal) Look for finely ground maize flour for a smoother texture.
- 200g (approx. 1 cup) Tomato purée Freshly made purée is preferred for an authentic taste.
- 2 medium-sized Onions Chop finely for a more uniform texture.
- 100ml (approx. 7 tablespoons) Palm oil Palm oil gives Djenkoumè its distinctive taste and color.
- 1 Red chili pepper Adjust to taste. Fresh peppers give the best flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
Djenkoumè (Savory Tomato Cornmeal Cake)
Updated on 03/23/2025
Originating from Benin, West Africa, Djenkoumè is a hearty, savory cornmeal cake steeped in a rich tomato sauce. This unique dish is traditionally served during communal gatherings and celebrations due to its ability to feed large crowds. Its vibrant, warm hues mirror the exuberance of these occasions. The dish is usually presented in individual portions molded into small mounds. Djenkoumè is often accompanied by grilled fish or meat and a side of spicy pepper sauce. The eating custom involves using your fingers to pinch a small portion of Djenkoumè and dip it into the accompanying sauce. This dish not only satisfies hunger, but also fosters unity and shared experiences.
Ingredients
- 500g (approx. 4 cups) Maize flour (cornmeal) (Look for finely ground maize flour for a smoother texture.)
- 200g (approx. 1 cup) Tomato purée (Freshly made purée is preferred for an authentic taste.)
- 2 medium-sized Onions (Chop finely for a more uniform texture.)
- 100ml (approx. 7 tablespoons) Palm oil (Palm oil gives Djenkoumè its distinctive taste and color.)
- 1 Red chili pepper (Adjust to taste. Fresh peppers give the best flavor.)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste.)
Instructions
No instructions available.
Nutrition Info:
- fatApproximately 10g per serving
- fiberApproximately 6g per serving
- sodiumApproximately 600mg per serving
- proteinApproximately 8g per serving
- caloriesApproximately 400 calories per serving
- carbohydratesApproximately 70g per serving