Mutsindish Ugali with Greens
A hearty and nutritious staple dish from Rwanda, featuring a cornmeal porridge (ugali) served alongside a flavorful stew of mixed greens and sometimes small pieces of meat or fish. This version focuses on the vegetarian preparation, highlighting the fresh produce.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Coarse cornmeal (or maize flour)
- 4 cups Water(plus more as needed)
- 500 g Mixed greens (e.g., spinach, kale, collard greens)(chopped)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 50 g Optional: Small piece of dried fish or smoked meat(for added flavor, if desired)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the ugali: In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, ensuring no lumps form. Reduce heat to low and continue to stir vigorously with a wooden spoon for about 20-25 minutes, or until a thick, firm porridge forms. Add more water if it becomes too stiff. Cover and keep warm.
💡 Tip: Stirring constantly is key to achieving a smooth ugali. - 2
While the ugali is cooking, prepare the greens: Heat vegetable oil in a separate pot or pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and chopped tomatoes to the pot. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, until tomatoes have softened and broken down.
- 4
If using, add the dried fish or smoked meat to the pot and stir. Then, add the chopped mixed greens.
- 5
Cover the pot and let the greens simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until tender and wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
💡 Tip: Don't overcook the greens; they should retain some texture and vibrant color. - 6
Serve the hot ugali alongside the stewed greens. The ugali can be scooped and used to scoop up the greens.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The consistency of ugali can be adjusted by adding more or less water.
- ✓A variety of local greens can be used, such as amaranth leaves, cassava leaves, or pumpkin leaves.
- ✓For a richer flavor, a small amount of peanut butter can be stirred into the greens towards the end of cooking.
🔄 Variations
- Add diced sweet potatoes or other root vegetables to the greens stew.
- Incorporate small pieces of chicken or beef for a non-vegetarian version.
- Serve with a side of spicy chili sauce.