Inspiration & History

Ugali is a cherished dish across East Africa, including Tanzania, often enjoyed with sukuma wiki (collard greens) and rich stews. This version elevates the traditional maize porridge by incorporating ground cashews for a creamy, nutty depth, paired with a vibrant mango chutney infused with Tanzanian spices.

Ingredients

Cashew Coconut Ugali

  • 1 cup fine maize flour (sembe)
  • ½ cup ground Tanzanian cashews
  • 1 ½ cups coconut milk
  • 1 cup water
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp butter (optional, for extra creaminess)

Spiced Mango Chutney

  • 1 large ripe mango, diced
  • ¼ cup chopped cashews
  • ½ tsp grated ginger
  • 1 small red chili (optional, for heat)
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp cloves
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tbsp coconut oil

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Instructions

Prepare the Ugali:

  1. In a pot, bring coconut milk, water, and salt to a boil.
  2. Slowly whisk in maize flour, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
  3. Add ground cashews and continue stirring until thick and smooth.
  4. Finish with butter if using, then mold into a dome shape.

Make the Chutney:

  1. Heat coconut oil in a pan, add ginger, and sauté for 1 minute.
  2. Add mango, honey, cinnamon, cloves, and chili, and cook for 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in chopped cashews and lime juice. Let cool slightly.

Serve:

Plate the warm cashew ugali with a generous spoonful of mango chutney.

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Reviews

  • A Gourmet Twist on a Tanzanian Classic!

    "As someone who grew up eating ugali daily, I was curious about this version with cashews and coconut milk. The result? Absolutely divine! The cashews give the ugali a delicate nutty richness, while the coconut milk makes it incredibly smooth. Paired with the spiced mango chutney, every bite was a beautiful balance of creamy, sweet, and subtly spicy. This is a dish that brings a taste of home with an elegant gourmet touch!" — Juma K., London

  • A Perfect Fusion of Tradition and Innovation

    "I never imagined ugali could be this luxurious! The cashews add a depth of flavour that elevates the dish beyond the usual maize-based staple. The mango chutney is the perfect complement—bursting with tropical sweetness and just the right amount of spice. This dish respects Tanzanian roots while creating something completely unique. Highly recommended!"
    — Sarah T., Brighton

  • A Must-Try for Foodies Who Love African Cuisine!

    This dish is a celebration of African flavors with a creative twist! The cashew-infused ugali is incredibly creamy and flavourful, and the mango chutney adds a zing that keeps you coming back for more. It’s comforting yet refined, making it perfect for both casual and special occasions. I’ll be making this again and again!"
    — David M., Manchester