Nthochi with Spicy Tomato Sauce

Ingredients

• For the Nthochi: For the Nthochi:
• 2 cups (240g) cornmeal 2 cups (240g) cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups (470ml) water 2 cups (470ml) water
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• For the Spicy Tomato Sauce: For the Spicy Tomato Sauce:
• 4 ripe tomatoes, diced 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 48g, 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal and salt for the Nthochi. Gradually add water while stirring, until a thick batter forms.
2. 2.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or pot for frying.
3. 3.
   Take a small portion of the batter and shape it into a small round fritter using your hands.
4. 4.
   Carefully drop the fritter into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy. Repeat with the remaining batter.
5. 5.
   Remove the fritters from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. 6.
7. 7.
   For the Spicy Tomato Sauce, heat a tablespoon of oil in a separate pan over medium heat.
8. 8.
   Add the onions and garlic, and sauté until they turn translucent.
9. 9.
   Add the diced tomatoes, paprika, cayenne pepper, and ground cumin. Cook for about 10 minutes, until the tomatoes have softened and the flavors have melded together.
10. 10.
    Season with salt to taste.
11. 11.
    Serve the Nthochi fritters hot with the Spicy Tomato Sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cornmeal — Make sure to use fine cornmeal for a smoother texture in the fritters.
• Tomatoes — Choose ripe and juicy tomatoes for the best flavor in the sauce.
• Cilantro — If you're not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with parsley for a milder herb flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra crispiness, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the Nthochi batter.
• Adjust the spiciness of the tomato sauce by adding more or less cayenne pepper according to your preference.
• Serve the Nthochi fritters as a snack, appetizer, or even as a main course with a side of vegetables or salad.

Serving advice

Serve the Nthochi fritters hot with a generous drizzle of the Spicy Tomato Sauce. Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for added freshness and color. These fritters are best enjoyed immediately after frying.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Nthochi fritters on a platter, garnish with cilantro, and place a small bowl of the Spicy Tomato Sauce in the center. This will create an inviting and visually appealing presentation.