Ugali

Due to its ease of preparation and low cost, ugali is Tanzania's most popular staple food. Slowly cook maize flour and water until it reaches a dough-like consistency, then set aside for a few minutes before eating. It's difficult to make a good analogy, but it reminds me of a cross between polenta and mashed potatoes (maybe).

Breaking off a chunk and mashing it into a small ball in the palm of your hand is the proper way to eat; this is then dipped into your main dish and popped into your mouth. It goes well with almost any main course, but it's most commonly served with nyama choma or mchuzi, a soup or stew. It's a strange food to adjust to, but once you do, it's strangely addictive. Keep an eye out!.