Vegan Ugali
Discover the simplicity and comfort of Vegan Ugali, a beloved East African staple made with just three ingredients: maize flour, water, and an optional pinch of salt. This naturally plant-based recipe is quick and easy, taking only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or as a nutritious accompaniment to your favorite vegan stews, sautéed greens, or plant-based proteins. With its smooth, dough-like consistency and comforting flavor, ugali is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with bold and flavorful dishes. Whether you’re exploring global cuisines or seeking a gluten-free, wholesome addition to your meals, this Vegan Ugali recipe is an essential addition to your table.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups Maize flour (cornmeal)
- 4 cups Water
- 0.5 teaspoons Salt (optional)
Instructions
In a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed saucepan, bring the 4 cups of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the salt if using.
Once the water starts boiling, reduce the heat to medium and gradually add the maize flour in small batches, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or spatula to prevent lumps from forming.
Continue stirring as the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Lower the heat to medium-low and press the ugali mixture against the pan's sides to remove any lumps, stirring vigorously to ensure a smooth texture.
Cook for another 5-7 minutes while continuing to stir and fold the mixture until it forms a firm, smooth dough-like consistency.
Once fully cooked, transfer the ugali onto a plate or serving dish. Use a spoon or spatula to shape it into a round mound.
Serve the ugali warm as a side dish, pairing it with vegan stews, sautéed greens, or any plant-based protein dish for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1184 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 5.6 g | 7% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.8 g | 4% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1152 mg | 50% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 254.1 g | 92% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 23.4 g | 84% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.0 g | ||
| Protein | 23.0 g | 46% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 64 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 7.7 mg | 43% | |
| Potassium | 454 mg | 10% | |
*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.
