Phutu is a traditional South African dish with a unique, crumbly texture similar to couscous. It’s a versatile side dish, often served with stews, chakalaka (a spicy vegetable relish), or with maas (sour milk).
Ingredients:
- 2 cups maize meal
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions:
- In a medium-sized pot with a well-fitting lid, bring the water and salt to a vigorous boil.
- Pour the maize meal directly into the center of the boiling water, allowing it to form a pyramid shape. Do not stir.
- Cover the pot, reduce the heat to its lowest setting, and let it steam for 10-15 minutes.
- Remove the lid. Use a fork to vigorously stir and break up the cooked maize meal, creating its characteristic crumbly, grainy texture.
- Cover the pot again and allow it to steam for another 10-15 minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked and fluffy.
- Fluff the phutu one last time with a fork before serving warm.
