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Futoo (Steamed Millet Dumplings in Sorrel Leaf Sauce)
Hand-rolled steamed millet dumplings served submerged in a tangy, vibrant sorrel leaf and smoked fish reduction.
The story
Futoo is an ancient Mandinka culinary specialty preserved primarily in the inland agricultural settlements of the Central and Upper River Regions. Prepared traditionally for evening meals after long fieldwork, the dish pairs indigenous drought-tolerant pearl millet with tart hibiscus greens. A precise culinary practice involves steaming the dumplings directly over the bubbling sorrel sauce in a perforated couscoussier, infusing the grain with herbal, acidic steam.
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