Recipes made of Maize

Maize is a staple food in many African countries and can be prepared in various ways that are both nutritious and appealing to children. Here are five popular maize-based dishes from Africa that are suitable for kids:

Ugali

Ugali: A dense, dough-like African staple made from maize flour and water.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups maize flour (cornmeal)
• 4 cups water
• One tablespoon of butter (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring the water to a boil in a large pot.
2. Gradually add the maize flour, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
3. Reduce the heat and continue stirring until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pot.
4. Cover and let it cook on low heat for a few more minutes.
5. Stir in the butter for added flavour (optional).

How to Serve:

It is often served with vegetables, meat, or fish. For kids, it can be paired with a mild vegetable stew or a bit of butter and sugar for a sweet treat.

Pap

Similar to ugali, pap is a type of porridge made from maize meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup maize meal (cornmeal)
• 4 cups water
• 2 cups milk
• 1/4 cup sugar
• One teaspoon of vanilla extract
• Fresh fruits (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring the water to a boil in a pot.
2. Gradually whisk in the maize meal to avoid lumps.
3. Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally until thickening (about 15 minutes).
4. Add the milk, sugar, and vanilla extract and stir well.
5. Cook for another 5 minutes until creamy.
6. Serve warm, topped with fresh fruits if desired.

How to Serve: Can be served soft and runny as a breakfast porridge with milk and sugar or thicker as a side dish with meat and gravy. Kids often enjoy it sweetened with a bit of honey or fruit.