How to make mealie (maize) meal pap (isitshwala, sadza) | A Southern African staple food

mealie meal

🥗Healthier: quinoa

💰Cheaper: cornmeal

Quinoa is a healthier grain alternative, while cornmeal is often less expensive.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil provides healthy fats, while margarine is more budget-friendly.

cheese

🥗Healthier: nutritional yeast

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Nutritional yeast is a vegan alternative that adds flavor without dairy.

milk

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: water

Almond milk is a lower-calorie option, while water is the most economical.

Boil water in a large pot over high heat until bubbling vigorously.

Add salt to the boiling water and stir to dissolve.

Gradually pour in mealie meal while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.

Reduce heat to medium and continue stirring until mixture thickens, about 5-10 minutes.

Cover the pot and let it steam for an additional 5 minutes on low heat.

Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted and incorporated.

Serve warm with your choice of toppings like cheese, onion, or tomato.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens