Assida (semolina porridge with butter and honey)

Method

1. 1

   Bring the water to the boil with a pinch of salt in a wide pot over a medium heat.

2. 2

   Gradually sprinkle the semolina or flour into the boiling water, stirring constantly and vigorously with a wooden spoon to prevent lumps.

3. 3

   Keep cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens into a heavy, firm dough that comes away from the sides of the pot.

4. 4

   Shape the hot assida on the serving plate into a mound or pyramid, making a small well in the centre.

5. 5

   Place a cube of fresh butter in the well to melt in the heat of the assida, and pour honey generously over the top; it is served on the morning of Ashura, a well-established tradition throughout Algeria.