Beninese Pelamushi

Ingredients

In the original Georgian Pelamushi, the main ingredient is grape juice, while in the Beninese adaptation, fresh grapes are used to enhance the natural flavors. Additionally, the Beninese version incorporates traditional Beninese spices to infuse the pudding with a distinct local taste. We alse have the original recipe for Pelamushi, so you can check it out.

• 2 pounds (900g) fresh grapes 2 pounds (900g) fresh grapes
• 1 cup (200g) sugar 1 cup (200g) sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) water 1 cup (240ml) water
• 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 0g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 65g, 50g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Wash the grapes thoroughly and remove the stems.
2. 2.
   In a large saucepan, combine the grapes, sugar, cinnamon stick, ground cloves, ground ginger, vanilla extract, and water.
3. 3.
   Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. 4.
   Remove the cinnamon stick from the mixture.
5. 5.
   In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in a little water to make a slurry.
6. 6.
   Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the grape mixture while stirring continuously.
7. 7.
   Continue to cook the mixture over low heat for another 5 minutes, or until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency.
8. 8.
   Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
9. 9.
   Pour the pudding into individual serving bowls or a large serving dish.
10. 10.
    Allow the pudding to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
11. 11.
    Serve chilled and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Grapes — Choose ripe and sweet grapes for the best flavor. You can use any variety of grapes available in Benin, such as Muscat grapes or local varieties.
• Cornstarch — Make sure to dissolve the cornstarch in water before adding it to the grape mixture to avoid lumps in the pudding.

Tips & Tricks

• Adjust the amount of sugar according to the sweetness of the grapes.
• For a spicier flavor, increase the amount of ground cloves and ginger.
• Serve the Pelamushi with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top for an extra touch of flavor.
• You can strain the grape mixture before adding the cornstarch if you prefer a smoother texture.
• Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom to add your own twist to the recipe.

Serving advice

Serve the Beninese Pelamushi chilled in individual bowls or a large serving dish. Garnish with fresh grapes or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for an attractive presentation.

Presentation advice

To enhance the visual appeal, serve the Pelamushi in transparent glass bowls or dessert cups. The vibrant purple color of the pudding will be beautifully showcased.