🍲 **Beta: Traditional Corn Porridge from Benin 🇧🇯**

Beta is a beloved street food in Benin, particularly enjoyed for breakfast. This hearty corn porridge is not only delicious but also nourishing, making it a staple for many families. Join Azia, a local vendor, as she shares her cherished recipe for this delightful dish.

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🌍 **What Is Beta?**

Beta, also known as corn porridge, is a traditional dish from West Africa, particularly popular in Benin. It is made from two types of corn: coarsely milled and finely milled. This dish is often served with sugar and milk, and is especially recommended for nursing mothers due to its nutritional benefits.

🧾 **Ingredients**

**Base:**

- 2 cups coarsely milled corn grains

- 2 cups finely milled corn grains

- Water (as needed)

**Optional:**

- Sugar (to taste)

- Milk (to serve)

👩‍🍳 **Step-by-Step Instructions**

1. **Prepare the Coarse Corn Grains**

- Clean the coarsely milled corn grains by washing them thoroughly.

- Lightly pound the grains in a mortar to break them down further.

- Dilute the pounded grains in water and sieve to remove the bran.

- Repeat the sieving process until most of the bran is removed.

- Allow the cleaned grains to drain.

2. **Start the Cooking Process**

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- Prepare a fire at the street corner where you will be selling the beta.

- Once the fire is ready, bring a large pot of water to a simmer.

3. **Cook the Coarse Corn Mixture**

- Add the cleaned coarse corn grains to the simmering water.

- While this cooks, prepare the finely milled corn mixture.

4. **Prepare the Finely Milled Corn**

- Dilute the finely milled corn in water and sieve to remove the bran.

- Repeat the sieving process until you have a smooth mixture.

5. **Combine and Cook**

- Pour the finely milled corn mixture into the pot with the coarse corn.

- Stir occasionally and allow it to cook for 10 to 15 minutes until thickened.

6. **Serve the Beta**

- Once cooked, beta is ready to be served.

🍽️ **How to Serve**

Serve beta warm, topped with sugar and/or milk according to your preference. It can be enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or snack throughout the day.

💡 **Pro Tips**

- For a creamier texture, add more milk when serving.

- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of sugar based on personal taste.

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- Beta can be made in larger batches and stored for later consumption.

🔥 **Why You’ll Love This**

Beta is not only a comforting and satisfying dish, but it also carries the rich cultural heritage of Benin. It’s a simple yet nourishing meal that brings families together, making it a perfect choice for breakfast or a quick snack. Enjoy the warmth and tradition of this delightful corn porridge!