Alouda

Alouda is a beloved traditional drink from Mauritius, known for its refreshing taste and unique texture. This Alouda recipe combines sweetened milk, basil seeds, and grated agar-agar to create a deliciously creamy beverage. Popularly enjoyed as a cooling treat on hot days, the Alouda drink is perfect for sharing with family and friends. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make this iconic Mauritian delight at home!

Ingredients:

• 7 g agar-agar
• Basil seeds
• 1/2 liter whole milk
• 1 can of NESTLÉ® CARNATION® evaporated milk
• 1/2 can of NESTLÉ® sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon almond essence
• 1 teaspoon food coloring

For the agar-agar:

1. Soak the basil seeds in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Dissolve 7 g of agar-agar in 1/2 liter of water and bring to a boil for about 25–30 minutes.
3. Boil until the water becomes completely clear, then let it set for a few hours.
4. Once the agar-agar has set, grate it.

Preparation:

1. Boil the milk for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent it from burning.
2. Add 1 can of evaporated milk and 1/2 can of condensed milk. Let it boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Add 1 teaspoon of almond essence and the food coloring. Continue stirring for 10 minutes.
4. Let the mixture cool and refrigerate for a few hours.
5. Add some soaked basil seeds and grated agar-agar to a glass.
6. Pour in the chilled milk, mix well, and serve cold.