This attieke recipe is quick, easy to make, and great for the whole family. It is ready in 10 minutes and is perfect when served with fresh vegetables and grilled fish.
1tablespoonFreshly squeezed lemon juice(from one lemon)
Freshly ground black pepper and saltto taste
½Tall English or Persian cucumbercubed (about 80g)
1smallRed Onioncubed (about 33g)
2Roma tomatoescubed (about 176g)
1tablespoonChopped fresh parsleyoptional
1 ½cupsDry attiékéavailable at African food stores or online
1 ½cupsChicken or vegetable Broth
1tablespoonUnsalted butteroptional
Instructions
Make the dressing: Scoop out half a tablespoon of olive oil and set aside for later. Add the remaining olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a small jar. Whisk the ingredients until they are well combined and the dressing has a smooth, homogenous texture.
⅓ cup Olive oil, 1 tablespoon Freshly squeezed lemon juice, Freshly ground black pepper and salt
Mix the Vegetables: Add the chopped cucumber, onion, tomatoes, and fresh parsley to a medium bowl. Pour over the dressing. Stir to coat, set the bowl aside to allow the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to absorb the dressing.
½ Tall English or Persian cucumber, 1 small Red Onion, 2 Roma tomatoes, 1 tablespoon Chopped fresh parsley
Heat the Acheke: Place the acheke in a microwave-safe large bowl. Add the chicken broth and ½ tablespoon olive oil.
1 ½ cups Dry attiéké, 1 ½ cups Chicken or vegetable Broth
Stir to combine, making sure the grains are covered with the liquid. (If you prefer, Add a pinch of salt to taste and mix well.) Cover the bowl.
Place the bowl in the microwave and heat for 2-3 minutes or until the grains are softened.
Remove from the microwave and add the butter, if using. Leave it covered for a minute, then use a fork to fluff the acheke to separate the grains.
1 tablespoon Unsalted butter
Serve hot with the cucumber salad alongside your favorite accompaniments, such as grilled fish, plantains, chicken, peri peri sauce, or sauteed onion sauce.
Notes
Thaw frozen attiéké completely in the refrigerator overnight or for a few hours before cooking to ensure even cooking and prevent clumping.Ensure consistent heat during steaming, and avoid opening the lid too often. This keeps the steam constant and cooks evenly.