Experience a taste of authentic South African cuisine with this Dairy-Free Traditional South African Pap recipe. Made with only three simple ingredients—white maize meal, water, and salt—this gluten-free and versatile dish is a beloved staple in South African households. The pap is cooked to a smooth, firm consistency that makes it the perfect side dish to complement hearty stews, grilled meats, or savory vegetable dishes. With just a few minutes of prep and a hands-on cooking technique that ensures no lumps, this recipe is both beginner-friendly and satisfying. Whether you’re exploring global flavors or seeking allergen-free comfort food, this dairy-free pap is a must-try addition to your recipe repertoire.
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, bring 3 cups of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the salt and stir to dissolve.
Reduce the heat to medium and gradually add the maize meal to the boiling water, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon or a whisk to prevent lumps from forming.
Once all the maize meal is incorporated, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid, leaving it slightly ajar to prevent boiling over.
Cook the pap on low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring every 5-10 minutes to ensure it doesn't stick to the bottom of the pot.
As the pap cooks, it will thicken and become a smooth, firm consistency. If the mixture becomes too dry, add the remaining 1 cup of water, a little at a time, to reach your desired texture.
Once cooked, give the pap a final stir and remove it from the heat. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serve hot as a side dish with your favorite stew, meat, or vegetable dishes.
Calories |
1158 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 4.8 g | 6% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.6 g | 3% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1032 mg | 45% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 246.4 g | 90% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.6 g | 31% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.9 g | ||
| Protein | 22.4 g | 45% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 102 mg | 8% | |
| Iron | 3.8 mg | 21% | |
| Potassium | 352 mg | 7% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.