Malawi Pumpkin and Maize Porridge (Nhopi)
Nhopi is a traditional Malawian porridge made from pumpkin and maize meal, often enjoyed for breakfast or as a comforting meal. It's a simple yet nutritious dish that highlights the use of staple ingredients in Malawian cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Pumpkin(peeled and cubed)
- 6 cups Water(divided)
- 1 cup Maize meal (cornmeal)
- 2 tablespoons Peanut butter(smooth)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt(or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon Sugar(optional, or to taste)
- for serving Butter or milk(optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a medium pot, combine the cubed pumpkin with 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the pumpkin is very soft, about 15-20 minutes.
- 2
Mash the cooked pumpkin with a fork or potato masher until smooth. Return the mashed pumpkin to the pot.
- 3
In a small bowl, whisk together the maize meal with the remaining 2 cups of water until smooth and no lumps remain.
- 4
Gradually add the maize meal mixture to the mashed pumpkin in the pot, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
- 5
Add salt and sugar (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The porridge should thicken to a smooth consistency.
- 6
Stir in the peanut butter until well combined. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
- 7
Serve hot, with a drizzle of butter or milk if desired.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the pumpkin is cooked until very tender to achieve a smooth porridge.
- ✓Stirring frequently is key to prevent lumps and sticking, especially as the porridge thickens.
- ✓Adjust the amount of water to reach your desired porridge consistency.
🔄 Variations
- Some traditional recipes omit peanut butter, focusing solely on the pumpkin and maize meal.
- For a sweeter version, increase the amount of sugar or add honey.
- Top with fresh fruit like bananas or berries for added flavor and texture.