Zimbabwe: Sadza ne Nyama

Sadza is an absolute staple in Zimbabwe. It's a cornmeal mixture served with all kinds of meats, vegetables, etc. I chose this recipe from zambuko.com, and it came out even better than I imagined. It's a hearty food that's perfect for when you're snowed in!

Serves 3-4

Sadza

Ingredients:

2 cups cornmeal (preferably white)

1 cup cold water

3 cups boiling water

Step 1: In a saucepan, mix 1 cup of cold water with 1 cup of cornmeal to make a thick paste.

Step 2: Add boiling water and mix until blended.

Step 3: Cover and cook on low heat for 15 minutes.

Step 4: Stir in remaining cornmeal. The consistency should be that of very thick mashed potatoes.

Nyama (meat stew)

Ingredients:

Olive oil

1.5 ounces ginger root, finely chopped

1 onion, chopped

1 lb. boneless chicken breast, cut into small cubes

1 tbsp. chile powder

1 tbsp. parsley flakes

1 tsp. cayenne pepper

1 tsp. black pepper

2 tsp. salt

1.5 lb. ripe tomatoes, diced

Chives or scallion

Step 1: Heat olive oil and a large saucepan. Add ginger and cook for 1-2 minutes.

Step 2: Add onion and continue to cook until onions are slightly translucent (about 3-4 minutes).

Step 3: Push onions and ginger to the edges of the pan, making a hole in the center. Add cubes of chicken, and brown.

Step 4: Sprinkle with the chile powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper and salt.

Step 5: Stir everything in the pan together and cook for a few more minutes.

Step 6: Stir in tomato and bring to a boil.

Step 7: Reduce to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes. During this time, mash the tomatoes against the side of the pan to produce a sauce.

Step 8: Top with fresh chives or scallion. Serve over sadza.