Coconut and Cassava Root Steamed Pudding

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A traditional Tanzanian dessert pudding combining grated cassava root with rich coconut milk and a hint of cardamom, steamed to a soft, fragrant finish. This african-inspired desserts ready in about 65 minutes layers cassava root, peeled and grated, coconut milk, brown sugar into a dessert worth slowing down for — great for weekend baking, holiday tables, or any time you want a sweet payoff at the end of a meal. Each serving lands at about 210 calories and feeds 6, so it slots into a weekend bake or a special-occasion dessert tray. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 50 min Serves 6 African cuisine 210 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups peeled and grated cassava root with 1 cup coconut milk, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 tsp cardamom powder, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/8 tsp salt; stir well until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is evenly mixed.
  2. Step 2: Prepare a steamer by bringing water to a boil in the bottom pot. Line a heatproof dish or small molds with banana leaves or parchment paper if available.
  3. Step 3: Pour the cassava mixture into the prepared dish or molds, cover tightly with foil or a lid, and steam over medium heat for 45-50 minutes until the pudding is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  4. Step 4: Remove from steamer and let cool slightly before slicing; serve warm or at room temperature as a sweet, tropical dessert.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Coconut and Cassava Root Steamed Pudding take to make?

Total time is about 65 minutes (15 min prep + 50 min cook). Most home bakers find this fits a weekend afternoon; chill or store as the recipe directs before serving.

How do I store leftover Coconut and Cassava Root Steamed Pudding?

Cool fully before storing. Most baked desserts keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cream- or custard-based desserts must go in the fridge within 2 hours; reheat gently or serve cold per the recipe.

Can I substitute ingredients in Coconut and Cassava Root Steamed Pudding?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Coconut and Cassava Root Steamed Pudding for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 6 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 6). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Coconut and Cassava Root Steamed Pudding?

African desserts like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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