Wèli (maize purée with okra)

Instructions

1. If using dried maize, soak it overnight, then remove the kernels and coarsely crush them in a mortar.
2. Cook the maize in salted boiling water for 25 minutes, stirring often.
3. Meanwhile, fry the chopped onion and crushed tomatoes in the palm oil until you have a thick sauce.
4. Mash the cooked maize with a spatula or pestle until you get a smooth, elastic purée.
5. Stir in the onion and tomato sauce, the chilli and the shea butter, then mix well.
6. Let it rest covered for 5 minutes before serving hot.