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Samp (samp): photo of the dish
Illustrative photo: Manuel Ebert — CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Everyday meals

Samp (samp)

Coarsely crushed white maize, cooked slowly until soft and creamy, the staple of traditional Xhosa and Zulu cooking. It is often served with beans (umngqusho), alongside meats or sauces.

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Ingredients

Ingredients

Spices & seasoning

Optional extras

On the side

Instructions

  1. Rinse the samp and beans under cold water. Soak them overnight in cold water.
  2. Drain, then put the samp and beans in a large pan with 1 litre of fresh water.
  3. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer covered for about 2 hours, stirring from time to time and adding water if needed.
  4. When the grains are tender and creamy, add the sliced onion, salt and pepper.
  5. Finish with a knob of butter to bind, adjust the seasoning and serve hot.

Variations and tips

Buttered samp. Add a spoonful of melted butter and a drizzle of corn syrup for a milder, snack-style flavour.

Using what's available. Samp can be found in African grocery shops; otherwise use polenta or coarsely crushed hominy, reducing the cooking time a little.

More ideas

Original Ecomely recipe.