Authentic South African Umnqusho Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of samp (white corn)
  • 1 cup of sugar beans
  • 2 tablespoons of oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon of curry powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin
  • 3 cups of beef or vegetable broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons of butter

Steps and instructions

  1. Soak the samp and sugar beans in a large bowl of water overnight.
  2. Drain the samp and beans, rinse them under cold water, and set aside.
  3. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
  4. Add the chopped onion to the saucepan and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent.
  5. Add the minced garlic, curry powder, turmeric, coriander, and cumin to the saucepan, stirring well to combine with the onions.
  6. Add the soaked samp and beans to the saucepan, along with the beef or vegetable broth, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 2 hours, or until the samp and beans are tender. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  8. Once the samp and beans are cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the butter until it's fully melted and mixed in.
  9. Season the Umnqusho with additional salt and pepper if needed, then serve it warm.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use different types of beans, such as red beans or black-eyed peas, instead of sugar beans.
  • Add diced tomatoes or tomato paste to the recipe for a richer flavor.
  • Increase the amount of spices or experiment with different spice blends to customize the taste.
  • Add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or butternut squash to make it heartier.
  • For a meat-free option, omit the meat broth and use vegetable broth instead.
  • Include cooked diced meat, such as chicken, beef, or lamb, to make it a protein-packed dish.
  • Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness.
  • Add a touch of coconut milk or cream for a creamy twist.
  • Serve Umnqusho with a side of chakalaka or sambal for extra spiciness.

Recipe overview

Umnqusho, often referred to as Samp and Beans, is a traditional South African dish that's packed with flavor and hearty ingredients. Made with a combination of samp (crushed white corn), sugar beans, and a mix of aromatic spices, it's a staple comfort food that's perfect for cold winter nights. The process of making Umnqusho involves soaking the samp and beans overnight, sautéing them with onions and spices, and then letting everything simmer together until it reaches a tender, creamy consistency. The dish is then finished off with a touch of butter for added richness. This recipe will guide you through each step of the process, ensuring you end up with a delicious and authentic Umnqusho. From the overnight soaking to the final seasoning, you'll love the satisfying process and the delightful end result. Enjoy this dish as a main course or as a hearty side, and experience a taste of South Africa right in your own kitchen.

Common questions

  1. How long do I need to soak the samp and sugar beans?
    You should soak the samp and sugar beans overnight in a large bowl of water.
  2. Can I use canned beans instead of soaking and cooking dried beans?
    Yes, you can use canned beans as a time-saving alternative. Drain and rinse the canned beans before adding them to the recipe.
  3. What can I use as a substitute for samp?
    If you can't find samp, you can substitute it with hominy or dried corn kernels.
  4. Can I use vegetable oil instead of oil mentioned in the recipe?
    Yes, you can use vegetable oil or any other neutral cooking oil as a substitute.
  5. Can I use chicken broth instead of beef or vegetable broth?
    Yes, you can use chicken broth as an alternative to beef or vegetable broth.
  6. Can I adjust the spices to my taste?
    Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of spices according to your personal preference.
  7. How do I know when the samp and beans are tender?
    The samp and beans should be soft and easily mashed between your fingers when they are fully cooked.
  8. Can I make Umnqusho ahead of time?
    Yes, Umnqusho can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  9. What can I serve with Umnqusho?
    Umnqusho is often served with grilled or roasted meats, such as chicken, beef, or lamb. It can also be enjoyed as a vegetarian main dish.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Saucepan - Needed to cook the samp and beans.
  • Large bowl - Used for soaking the samp and beans overnight.
  • Large spoon - For stirring the ingredients in the saucepan.
  • Knife - To finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
  • Measuring cup - Required to accurately measure the ingredients.
  • Serving dish - Used to serve the Umnqusho.

Origin stories

Umnqusho is a hearty dish originating from the Xhosa people in South Africa. In Xhosa culture, it's often served at significant events and ceremonies, symbolizing communal togetherness. Renowned for its nutritious value, this humble dish soared to fame when it was mentioned as Nelson Mandela's favorite meal in his autobiography, "Long Walk to Freedom". He fondly referred to it as the "kitchen of his childhood", making Umnqusho not just a simple staple food, but also a dish carrying profound historical and cultural significance.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.