Pap and meat

🍲 How to Prepare Pap and Meat

Ingredients

For Pap (maize meal porridge)

• 2 cups maize meal (mielie meal)
• 4 cups water
• ½ teaspoon salt

For Meat (beef or any choice of meat)

• 500g beef (or chicken, lamb, or pork)
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2 tomatoes (chopped) or tomato paste
• 2 cloves garlic (optional)
• 1 teaspoon curry powder or paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method

Step 1: Cook the Pap

1. Boil 4 cups of water in a pot with salt.
2. Gradually add maize meal while stirring to avoid lumps.
3. Lower the heat and cover the pot.
4. Let it steam for about 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally until thick and firm.

👉 For soft pap, add more water.
👉 For stiff pap (phutu/sadza), use less water and stir well.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat

1. Heat oil in a pan and fry onions until golden.
2. Add garlic and spices (curry, paprika, etc.).
3. Add meat pieces and fry until browned.
4. Add tomatoes and a little water, then cover and let simmer until meat is tender (30–45 minutes depending on the cut).
5. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Serve

• Dish the pap onto a plate.
• Top with the meat and sauce.
• Serve with chakalaka, spinach, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

🌟 Lifestyle Tip

Pap and meat isn’t just food—it’s a symbol of togetherness. It’s often served at family gatherings, celebrations, and weekend meals. To make it healthier, you can use lean meat and add vegetables for more nutrients.