Ugali with Sukuma Wiki (Collard Greens) and Fried Eggs

Ingredients

Contains egg. Cooking for an allergy? Check the label on every packet you use — brands differ, and we can only tell you what the recipe calls for.

Method

1. 1

   Pour 4 cups water and 1 tsp salt into a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat.

   5 min
2. 2

   Remove the pot from the heat.

3. 3

   Gradually sprinkle in the 2 cups maize flour while stirring briskly with a sturdy wooden spoon to prevent lumps until the mixture is smooth.

   Add the flour in a thin stream or handfuls while stirring; a few lumps can be broken up by pressing the spoon against the side of the pot.

4. 4

   Return the pot to low heat and cook, stirring and pressing the dough against the sides so it forms a firm mass and pulls away from the pan.

   Stir frequently; ugali will thicken and tighten in about 5–8 minutes. If it becomes too stiff, stir in 1–2 tbsp warm water.

   6 min
5. 5

   Scoop the ugali onto a plate or wooden board, shape into a mound with the spoon or wet hands, cover and let rest for 2 minutes.

   2 min
6. 6

   While the ugali cooks or rests, heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

7. 7

   Add the sliced onion and sauté until softened and translucent.

   4 min
8. 8

   Add the minced garlic and sliced chili (if using) and cook, stirring, until fragrant.

   1 min
9. 9

   Add the chopped tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they break down and form a saucy base.

   6 min
10. 10

    Add the thinly sliced sukuma wiki (collard greens), season with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper, and cook, stirring, until the leaves are wilted and tender.

    Press the greens into the pan with the spoon so they wilt faster; cook until bright and tender but not mushy.

    6 min
11. 11

    In a separate small skillet, heat 1 tbsp oil over medium heat.

12. 12

    Crack the eggs into the skillet and fry to your liking (sunny-side up takes about 3–4 minutes).

    For less oil, cover the pan briefly to set whites while keeping yolks runny.

    4 min
13. 13

    To serve, portion ugali into 4 plates, spoon sukuma wiki alongside, and top each portion with a fried egg.