A beloved staple across East Africa, Ugali is a thick, dough-like cornmeal dish often paired with Sukuma Wiki—collard greens sautéed with tomatoes and onions. This combination is not just affordable and nutritious but also central to daily meals in many households.
Ingredients:
For Ugali:
2 cups maize flour (white cornmeal)
4 cups water
Pinch of salt (optional)
For Sukuma Wiki:
1 bunch sukuma wiki (collard greens), chopped
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 onion, sliced
2 tomatoes, diced
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper to taste
½ teaspoon curry powder or Royco (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare Ugali:
In a heavy-bottomed pot, bring the water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt if desired.
Gradually add maize flour while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
Reduce heat to medium-low and keep stirring and turning with a wooden spoon (mwiko) until the mixture thickens and begins to pull away from the sides of the pot.
Cover and let it steam for a few minutes, then shape it into a dome and serve.
Prepare Sukuma Wiki:
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
Add tomatoes and cook until softened.
Add chopped greens and stir to combine.
Season with salt, pepper, and curry powder if using. Cook until tender but still vibrant green (about 5–7 minutes).
Serving Suggestion:
Scoop a portion of ugali onto a plate and serve with a generous helping of sukuma wiki on the side. Enjoy with your hands for the most authentic experience!
