Nsima with Pumpkin Leaves (Mtedza wa Masamba)
A staple Malawian dish of nsima (a thick maize porridge) served with a flavorful relish made from tender pumpkin leaves, often enhanced with groundnuts or tomatoes.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Maize flour
- 1 liter Water(for nsima)
- 500 g Pumpkin leaves(fresh, washed and chopped)
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 50 g Groundnuts (peanuts)(roasted and ground, optional)
- 2 tbsp Cooking oil
- to taste Salt
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the nsima: Bring 1 liter of water to a boil in a pot. Gradually whisk in maize flour to create a smooth, thick porridge. Continue to cook, stirring vigorously, until it forms a stiff, dough-like consistency. Cover and let it steam for about 10-15 minutes.
- 2
While the nsima steams, prepare the relish: Heat cooking oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 3
Add chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook until they break down, about 5-7 minutes.
- 4
Add the chopped pumpkin leaves to the pan. Stir well to combine with the onion and tomato mixture. If using ground groundnuts, stir them in now. Add salt to taste.
- 5
Cover the pan and let the relish simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the pumpkin leaves are tender and well-cooked.
- 6
Serve the hot nsima with the pumpkin leaf relish on the side.
💡 Tip: Nsima is traditionally eaten with the hands.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the pumpkin leaves are thoroughly washed to remove any dirt.
- ✓Adjust the consistency of the nsima by adding more or less maize flour.
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can add a small piece of dried fish or a bouillon cube to the relish.
🔄 Variations
- Add other leafy greens like rape or sweet potato leaves.
- Incorporate a pinch of chili for a spicy kick.
- Use a small amount of peanut butter instead of ground peanuts for a creamier relish.