Saagu Bondibai, a beloved Maldivian dessert made from sago pearls. This treat has a unique, creamy texture and is flavored with coconut milk, making it both comforting and exotic. It’s especially popular for its soft, pudding-like consistency and a subtle sweetness that's often enhanced with rose water or cardamom. Let’s dive into this traditional Maldivian recipe, perfect for anyone looking to explore Maldivian cuisine at home.

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Prep Time: 5 minutes  
Cook Time: 25 minutes  
Total Time: 30 minutes  
Servings: 4  
Category: Dessert  
Cuisine: Maldivian  

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Ingredients

- ½ cup sago pearls (tapioca pearls)
- 2 cups coconut milk (fresh or canned)
- ½ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon rose water (optional, for floral aroma)
- ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom (optional, for a warm flavor)
- Salt, a pinch
- Desiccated coconut or chopped nuts (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Sago Pearls: 
   Rinse the sago pearls under cold water, draining any excess starch. Set aside.

2. Boil the Water: 
   In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil over medium heat. Add the sago pearls and cook, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the pearls become translucent and soft.

3. Add Coconut Milk and Sugar: 
   Reduce heat to low, then add the coconut milk, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer, stirring frequently, until it thickens into a pudding-like consistency (about 10 minutes).

4. Flavor the Pudding: 
   For an authentic touch, add rose water and cardamom powder. Stir until evenly distributed. Taste and adjust sweetness or flavorings if desired.

5. Serve and Garnish: 
   Once the pudding has reached a creamy texture, remove from heat. Transfer to serving bowls and allow it to cool slightly. Garnish with desiccated coconut, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of extra coconut milk for presentation.

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Tips for Perfect Saagu Bondibai

- Cook the sago thoroughly: Properly cooked sago pearls should be translucent. Avoid overcooking, as they can become mushy.
- Customize the sweetness: You can adjust the sugar amount based on preference. Traditional Saagu Bondibai is mildly sweet.
- Enhance the flavor: Try adding pandan leaves while cooking for a mild, floral note, then remove before serving.
- Serving suggestion: Saagu Bondibai is delicious warm or chilled, making it a versatile dessert for any season.

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Why You’ll Love Saagu Bondibai

Saagu Bondibai is an easy yet indulgent dessert that captures the tropical essence of the Maldives. The creamy texture, combined with coconut milk and subtle hints of rose and cardamom, makes this dessert a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or trying out a new recipe, this Maldivian sago pudding is a unique dish that brings a taste of the islands to your home.

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FAQs

Q: Can I make Saagu Bondibai vegan? 
A: Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan if using plant-based coconut milk.

Q: Can I store leftovers? 
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Serve chilled or warm it gently before serving.

Q: Can I use any other type of milk? 
A: Coconut milk gives an authentic flavor, but you can substitute with almond or regular milk if desired.

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Enjoy your homemade *Saagu Bondibai*, a delicious journey into Maldivian cuisine!