Malawian Nsima with Chambo

Nsima is Malawi’s staple maize porridge, commonly served with chambo fish, greens, and a bright tomato relish.

Cook the nsima until smooth and firm, pan-fry the fish until browned, and serve the components together for scooping.

Add the maize flour gradually while whisking so the porridge stays smooth without dry pockets.

Serving Suggestions

Serve immediately with extra relish and greens, using pieces of nsima to scoop the fish and vegetables.

Recipe Notes

Nsima is best fresh. Store fish and sides separately for up to 2 days and reheat gently.

Malawian Nsima with Chambo

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Smooth maize nsima served with pan-fried chambo fish, tomato relish, and leafy greens.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 4 plates

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Malawian

Calories: 520

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

 

US CustomaryMetric

 

1x2x3x?

Nsima

• 2 cups white maize flour fine-ground
• 4 cups water
• 1/2 tsp salt

Fish and Sides

• 1 whole chambo fish cleaned and scored
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil divided
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup red onion sliced
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 4 cups leafy greens chopped and cooked

Equipment

• Large saucepan
• Whisk
• Nonstick skillet
• Wooden spoon

Method

 

Cook the Nsima:

1. Bring 3 cups of the water and the salt to a simmer. Whisk in 1 cup of maize flour to make a thin porridge.
2. Reduce the heat. Add the remaining flour gradually while stirring with a wooden spoon, then add the remaining water as needed.
3. Cook and stir for 10 to 12 minutes until smooth, firm, and pulling away from the pan. Cover and keep warm.

Cook the Fish and Serve:

1. Season the chambo and pan-fry it in 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes per side.
2. Warm the remaining oil in a small pan. Cook the tomatoes and onion for 5 minutes, then stir in the lime juice.
3. Shape the nsima into portions and serve with the chambo, tomato relish, and cooked greens.

Nutrition

Calories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 31gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 520mgFiber: 7gSugar: 7g

Notes

• Use a firm wooden spoon for stirring the nsima as it thickens.
• Check the fish carefully for bones before serving.