South African Stiff Pap Recipe

Pap, also known as sadza or ugali in other African countries, is a delicious and versatile South African staple food made from maize meal (corn flour). Here’s a recipe for classic stiff pap:

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups water
  • 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 2 cups maize meal
  • 2 tbsp butter (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Bring water to a boil: In a large pot or saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a rapid boil. Add salt.

  2. Gradually add maize meal: Slowly whisk in the maize meal, a little at a time, to avoid lumps. Reduce heat to medium-low.

  3. Cook and stir: Cook for about 20 minutes, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. This prevents lumps and ensures even cooking.

  4. Check consistency: After 20 minutes, the pap should be starting to thicken. If it’s too dry, add a little more boiling water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach a desired consistency. Stiff pap should be firm but moldable.

  5. Steam and finish: Turn the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and steam the pap for 10-15 minutes. This allows the pap to fully cook through and develop a smooth texture.

  6. Serve: Remove the lid and stir in butter (optional) for extra flavor. Serve hot with your favorite stew, vegetables, or braai (South African barbecue) meats.

Tips:

  • Use a whisk to break up any lumps that form while adding the maize meal.
  • The consistency of pap is a matter of preference. For softer pap, add slightly more water during cooking.
  • You can substitute butter with other fats like margarine or cooking oil.
  • Leftover pap can be refrigerated and sliced for later use. Reheat by pan-frying or grilling until crispy.

Enjoy your delicious homemade South African pap!