Learn how to make Muufo, a traditional Somali bread made from cornmeal, known for its soft texture and slightly crispy edges. This versatile bread is often enjoyed with hearty stews or soups, making it a staple in Somali cuisine. Follow our simple step-by-step recipe to bring a taste of Somalia to your table.

Ingredients:

- 2 cups cornmeal  

- 1 cup all-purpose flour  

- 1 teaspoon salt  

- 1 teaspoon sugar  

- 2 teaspoons yeast  

- 1½ cups warm water  

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil  

Instructions:

Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, mix the cornmeal, flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Gradually add the warm water, stirring until a dough forms. Knead for about 10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.  

Let it rise: Cover the dough with a cloth and let it rest for 1-2 hours in a warm place until it doubles in size.  

Shape the bread: Once risen, divide the dough into 4-5 portions. Roll each portion into a round flat disc, about ½ inch thick.  

Cook the Muufo: Heat a pan or skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Cook each disc for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.  

Serve: Serve warm, typically alongside stew, soup, or with a spread of butter and honey.

Enjoy your homemade Muufo!

Nutritional values

Cornmeal (2 cups)

 - Calories: About 365 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 73 grams

 - Protein: 7 grams

 - Fat: 1 gram

Benefits: Provides a good source of dietary fiber, essential vitamins (like B vitamins), and minerals (such as magnesium and phosphorus). Adds a slightly sweet, nutty flavor and a coarse texture.

All-Purpose Flour (1 cup)

 - Calories: About 364 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 76 grams

 - Protein: 10 grams

 - Fat: 1 gram

Benefits: Provides carbohydrates for energy and some protein. Also contains iron and B vitamins. It helps to create a more pliable and softer dough when combined with cornmeal.

Salt (1 teaspoon)

 - Sodium: About 38,000 mg

Benefits: Enhances the flavor of the dough and regulates the balance of fluids in the body. Use in moderation to avoid high sodium intake.

Sugar (1 teaspoon)

 - Calories: About 387 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 100 grams

 - Protein: 0 grams

 - Fat: 0 grams

Benefits: Provides a small amount of sweetness and helps to activate the yeast by feeding it, which contributes to the rise of the dough.

Yeast (2 teaspoons)

 - Calories: About 325 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 50 grams

 - Protein: 40 grams

 - Fat: 6 grams

Benefits: A leavening agent that helps the dough rise by producing carbon dioxide. It contains proteins and B vitamins, which are beneficial for overall health.

Warm Water (1½ cups)

 - Calories: 0 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

 - Protein: 0 grams

 - Fat: 0 grams

Benefits: Essential for hydrating the dough and activating the yeast. Helps in mixing and binding the ingredients together.

Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons)

 - Calories: About 884 kcal

 - Fat: 100 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

 - Protein: 0 grams

Benefits: Adds moisture to the dough and can provide essential fatty acids depending on the type of oil used. Helps in achieving a soft and pliable dough.

This combination of cornmeal, all-purpose flour, and other ingredients creates a dough with a balanced texture and flavor. Cornmeal provides a unique texture and flavor, while all-purpose flour ensures the dough remains pliable. Yeast helps with rising, and the sugar aids in activating the yeast. Salt enhances flavor, and vegetable oil adds moisture and richness to the dough.