Sadza is a dense, smooth maize meal porridge that is the cornerstone of Zimbabwean cuisine. It is a staple food, traditionally eaten by hand and used to scoop up stews and sauces.
Ingredients:
- 1½ cups maize meal
- 4 cups water, divided
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine ½ cup of maize meal with 2 cups of cold water. Whisk until smooth to form a paste.
- Place the pot on medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring continuously to prevent any lumps from forming.
- In a separate bowl, mix the remaining 1 cup of maize meal with 2 cups of water.
- Slowly and steadily pour this second mixture into the pot, stirring vigorously to maintain a smooth consistency.
- As you continue to stir, the sadza will begin to thicken considerably.
- Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring often to cook the maize meal thoroughly.
- Once it is thick and smooth, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it steam for a final 10 minutes.
- Serve immediately, traditionally shaped into a mound, alongside your favorite relish or stew.





