Ugali Cornmeal Porridge with Sukuma Wiki Greens
Classic Tanzanian ugali made from fine cornmeal served alongside sautéed sukuma wiki kale for a hearty, traditional meal. This African-inspired vegetarian recipe, ready in about 30 minutes, pairs fine cornmeal, water, salt for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fine cornmeal
- 4 cups water
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 lb, chopped sukuma wiki kale
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 small, thinly sliced onion
- 1 medium, diced tomato
- 2, minced garlic cloves
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
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Instructions
- Step 1: In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups water with 1/2 tsp salt to a boil over high heat. Gradually whisk in 2 cups fine cornmeal to prevent lumps.
- Step 2: Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon, for 10-12 minutes until the mixture thickens into a stiff porridge and pulls away from the sides.
- Step 3: Meanwhile, heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 small thinly sliced onion and sauté for 3 minutes until softened.
- Step 4: Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 medium diced tomato; cook for 4 minutes until fragrant and the tomato breaks down.
- Step 5: Stir in 1 lb chopped sukuma wiki kale, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper; sauté for 6-7 minutes until the greens are tender but still vibrant.
- Step 6: Serve the ugali hot with the sautéed sukuma wiki on the side to scoop and enjoy as a traditional Tanzanian meal.









