RecipesLesothoMotoho (Fermented Sorghum Porridge)

Motoho (Fermented Sorghum Porridge)

Motoho is a traditional and staple Basotho porridge made from fermented sorghum. It has a distinctive slightly sour taste due to the fermentation process, and can be enjoyed as a breakfast dish or a refreshing drink. It's a highly nutritious and energy-giving food, reflecting the importance of sorghum in Lesotho's agricultural heritage.

Prep Time10 minutes + 24 hours fermentation
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time24 hours 40 minutes
Servings4
DifficultyEasy
Motoho (Fermented Sorghum Porridge) - Lesotho traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 2 cups Sorghum flour
  • 6 cups Water(divided)
  • 0.5 tsp Salt
  • Sugar or honey(optional, to taste)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    In a bowl, mix 2 cups of sorghum flour with 2 cups of water to form a smooth paste. This is the base for fermentation.

    💡 Tip: Ensure there are no lumps in the paste.
  2. 2

    Cover the bowl and leave the sorghum paste to ferment at room temperature for 24 hours. Stir occasionally.

    💡 Tip: The fermentation develops the characteristic sour flavor. You can use a small amount of this fermented mixture as a starter ('tomoso') for future batches.
  3. 3

    After fermentation, pour the remaining 4 cups of water into a pot and bring it to a boil.

  4. 4

    Gradually add the fermented sorghum paste to the boiling water, stirring continuously to prevent lumps and ensure it's well combined.

    💡 Tip: Stirring is crucial to achieve a smooth consistency.
  5. 5

    Reduce the heat to low and simmer the porridge for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and burning at the bottom of the pot.

    💡 Tip: The consistency can be adjusted by adding more water if a thinner, more drinkable porridge is desired.
  6. 6

    Stir in the salt. Taste and add sugar or honey if desired for sweetness.

    💡 Tip: The amount of sugar is a personal preference; some enjoy it plain.
  7. 7

    Serve warm as a breakfast dish or allow to cool and serve as a refreshing drink.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Sorghum flour can be found in health food stores or specialty markets.
  • The fermentation time can be adjusted based on desired sourness.
  • Motoho can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days.

🔄 Variations

  • Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
  • Serve with a side of mafi (fermented milk) for a traditional pairing.

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