On African Food Series -Let’s go to Malawi
Futali is a traditional Malawian delicacy that is enjoyed for breakfast. The dish is prepared with sweet potatoes and peanut flour. Greens may be added to enhance its flavor and nutritional value. Though the Futali recipe may look simple, it is loaded with healthy nutrients to keep your body nourished all day long. In Malawi, no breakfast is complete without Futali.
People across the globe have adapted Futali with a Malawian twist. Malawi is the mother chef- if you do not prepare it Malawian style, you will not get the real authentic taste. Before we begin digging deep into our secret recipe, here is a lowdown of Malawian dining culture.
Malawi Dining Etiquette
Malawi is one of the land-locked countries which boast of their cultural diversity. The nation is popularly referred to as “the warmth heart of Africa” because of her people’s welcoming nature.
The country is known for its unique culinary art and culture, which attracts people across the globe. And Malawians are not shy to show off their cooking skills. Locals depend on agriculture. The cuisine experienced here comprises of locally grown foods.
Some of the staples include corn, peanuts, cucumbers, pineapples, sorghum, cassava, beans, potatoes and bananas.
Food has always been part of ceremonies bringing family, friends and community together. The locals do not shy from showcasing their culinary skills. So don’t be baffled when ushered in a Malawian home during mealtime, even if you didn’t have an invitation.
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Meals, meetings, ceremonies, and journeys are commenced with a prayer. Men and women dine separately. As a tradition, the wife is supposed to serve her husband’s food on her knees.
[Bctt Tweet=”In Malawi customs, women are expected to serve their husbands on their knees”]
Brides are expected by customs to serve their husband’s parent’s food in the same position.
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Now, let’s shift our focus from cultural matters to our Futila recipe.
Ingredients
8 sweet potatoes or cassavas, bananas or small pumpkin
Water
1 cup peanut flour
Spinach or pumpkin leaves (optional)
-Guide-
- Wash and peel your sweet potatoes. Chop them into sizeable pieces and wash them again to remove any dirt. Add warm water and salt in a cooking pot and cover with banana leaves or a lid.
- Bring the potatoes to boil and cook until they are tender.
- As your potatoes cook, boil your greens for 5 minutes under medium heat. Drain the water and set aside.
- Drain the water from the potatoes and leave a small amount. Add your peanut flour and simmer for about five minutes.
- Enjoy while hot
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