Hearty Sudanese Cornmeal Porridge – Ready in 30 Minutes

Sudanese Ashida

(Hearty Sudanese Cornmeal Porridge)

Revel in the humble, heart‑warming porridge that has long been a staple of Sudanese celebrations. Made from fermented corn flour and finished with a savory beef sauce, this dish brings together simple ingredients and bold flavors for a truly comforting meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups corn flour (for dough)
• 1 cup water (for dough)
• 1 tsp salt (for dough)
• 2 cups water (for ashida)
• ½ tsp salt (for ashida)
• ¼ cup cold water (for ashida)
• ½ cup corn oil (for ashida)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 3 medium onions, diced
• ¼ cup corn oil (for sauce)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• ½ tsp salt (for sauce)
• ½ tsp black pepper (for sauce)

Instructions

1. Mix the corn flour, water, and 1 tsp salt until a smooth dough forms.
2. Cover the dough and let rest overnight in a cool place.
3. Boil 2 cups of water with ½ tsp salt in a small saucepan.
4. Stir in the rested dough, cooking until the mixture thickens.
5. Add ¼ cup cold water, stirring continuously; add more water if a thinner consistency is desired.
6. Simmer for at least 5 minutes; a spoonful should not stick to the bottom.
7. Transfer the ashida to a mold, drizzle with a little corn oil, and let cool before refrigerating.
8. Sauté diced onions in ¼ cup corn oil until translucent.
9. Add ground beef, cooking until browned; season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices.
10. Fold in tomato paste, then add enough water to create a gravy and bring to a boil.
11. Simmer on low heat until the sauce thickens, then stir in the reserved oil.
12. Serve the chilled ashida topped with the hot beef sauce.

Nutrition (per serving)