Ravir de Deku (Deku Delight) is a traditional Congolese recipe (from the Democratic Republic of the Congo) for a classic dish of smoked rats cooked in palm oil with tomatoes, onions and chillies that is typically served as a starter. The full recipe is presented here and I hope you enjoy this classic Congolese version of: Deku Delight (Ravir de Deku).
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This recipe comes from the Democratic Republic of Congo during post-colonial times (when it was known as Zaire [between 1971 and 1997]). Basically it's smoked rat cooked in a flavoured palm oil base. The French name translates as 'Deku Delight', denoting the region from which the recipe was derived. But if you want a pithier English title, I would call it 'Smoked Rat Starter'.
Throughly clean the rats and split in half (they will already to splayed open for smoking). Place in a bowl, cover with water and set aside to soak for 30 minutes.
In a mortar pound the tomatoes, onions and chillies to form a paste. Heat the red palm oil in a pan then add the onion paste and fry for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are just browned.
Now drain the rats and remove any skin. Cut off the heads, feet and tails then add to the palm oil mixture. Fry, turning frequently for about 20 minutes, or until heated through (the rats are already cooked due to the smoking).
Arrange the rats on a plate covered with shredded carrots, shredded lettuce and cauliflower florets. Spoon over some of the sauce and serve as a starter.
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