maliandrink
Dege
Chilled Malian millet porridge sweetened with baobab powder and sugar.
Prep
1440 min
Cook
0 min
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
★★★★★
4.5(270 ratings)#millet#baobab#cold drink#fermented#vegan#gluten-free
About This Recipe
Dege is a refreshing cold drink-porridge made from fermented millet flour blended with baobab powder and sugar. Sold from large clay pots by vendors across Bamako and beyond, it is the go-to thirst-quencher during the hot dry season.
Ingredients
Serves 4
- 1 cupmillet flour
- 2 tbspbaobab powder
- 3 tbspsugar (or to taste)
- 4 cupscold water
Instructions
- 1
Ferment
Mix millet flour with enough water to form a thick paste. Cover and ferment at room temperature for 24 hours.
- 2
Blend
Transfer fermented paste to a blender with cold water, baobab powder, and sugar. Blend smooth.
- 3
Strain
Pour through a fine strainer or muslin cloth to remove any lumps.
- 4
Chill and serve
Refrigerate until cold and serve over ice in tall glasses.
Pro Tips
- →
Baobab powder adds a pleasant citrusy tang — adjust amount to taste.
- →
Longer fermentation yields a more sour dege.
Variations
- •
Add a pinch of vanilla extract.
- •
Replace baobab with tamarind paste.
Storage
Keep refrigerated and consume within 2 days.
History & Origin
Dege is an ancient Saharan refreshment that has nourished travellers and farmers in Mali for hundreds of years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find baobab powder?
Health food stores and online retailers stock it widely.
Can I skip fermentation?
Yes for a quick version, but it will lack the tangy depth.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (350g / 12.3 oz) · 4 servings total
Calories150kcal
Protein3g
Carbohydrates32g
Fat1g
Fiber2g
Protein3g
Carbs32g
Fat1g
Time Summary
Prep time1440 min
Cook time0 min
Total time1440 min
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