Phutu - South African Cornmeal Dish

Ingredients

• 2 cups (400g) cornmeal 2 cups (400g) cornmeal
• 4 cups (950ml) water 4 cups (950ml) water
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 2 tablespoons butter or oil Optional: 2 tablespoons butter or oil
• Optional: 1 onion, finely chopped Optional: 1 onion, finely chopped
• Optional: 1 teaspoon garlic, minced Optional: 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• Optional: 1 teaspoon dried herbs (such as thyme or oregano) Optional: 1 teaspoon dried herbs (such as thyme or oregano)
• Optional: 1 cup (150g) mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, or corn) Optional: 1 cup (150g) mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, or corn)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 2g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 52g, 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the cornmeal to the boiling water, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
3. 3.
   Reduce the heat to low and continue stirring until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
4. 4.
   If using, heat the butter or oil in a separate pan and sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.
5. 5.
   Add the optional herbs and mixed vegetables to the onion mixture and cook until the vegetables are tender.
6. 6.
   Combine the cooked vegetables with the cornmeal mixture and stir well to incorporate.
7. 7.
   Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cornmeal — Use finely ground cornmeal for a smoother texture in the Phutu.
• Onion and garlic — Sautéing the onion and garlic adds depth of flavor to the dish.
• Mixed vegetables — Feel free to use your favorite vegetables or whatever is in season to add color and nutrition to the Phutu.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, use vegetable or chicken broth instead of water.
• Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Serve Phutu with a dollop of chutney or tomato relish for added tanginess.
• Leftover Phutu can be shaped into patties and pan-fried for a delicious breakfast option.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of your Phutu.

Serving advice

Serve Phutu hot as a side dish with your favorite South African stews, curries, or grilled meats. It can also be enjoyed as a main course with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, shape the Phutu into small mounds using a spoon or a mold. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.