Pap and African Safari Pictures

My husband and I were introduced to Pap while on safari in Botswana this April.  It is the staple very white cooked cereal eaten by the locals.  Traditionally the hands are used instead of forks.  The firm texture makes this possible.

Our cook, Adamente, in the bush camp told how easy it is to make.  One fills a large sauce pan with water and brings it to the boil.  Add a couple of cups of maize to the boiling water; give it a thorough stir.  Cover and turn the heat down to let the cereal just simmer until thick.  More maize can be added at the last minute or two of cooking to insure firmness of the final product.

We enjoyed Pap with a tomato sauce as shown in the picture.  Other dishes served at the meal with the Pap were green beans and beef stew.

Pap has little taste on its own but takes on the flavour of the sauce it is served with.