So, my dear reader — be honest, have you ever thought about making your own mageu?
I know, right?
It’s one of those things we always just grab off the store shelf without giving it a second thought. Lool, trust me, I was in the same boat! I have always been that “buy it, don’t make it” kinda girl — until today.
To my surprise, making mageu is actually so easy! And the best part? It’s not just delicious — it’s also good for you. Mageu is packed with probiotics that are great for your digestion, helps keep you hydrated, and gives you a gentle energy boost.
So, what do you say? Ready to roll up your sleeves and make your own batch for the very first time? Let’s do this together!
How to make your own Mageu
Ingredients:
- 2 cups maize meal (mealie meal / pap meal)
- 4 cups water (for cooking)
- 3–4 cups lukewarm water (for thinning)
- ½ cup sugar (optional, to taste)
- 1–2 tablespoons instant dry yeast (optional, speeds up fermentation)
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Method:
- Cook the base pap:
*In a pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
*Mix maize meal with a little cold water in a bowl to make a smooth paste (this prevents lumps).
*Add the paste into the boiling water while stirring continuously.
*Cook on medium heat for about 10–15 minutes, stirring often, until it becomes a soft, smooth porridge (like thick pap).
*Remove from heat and let it cool completely to lukewarm temperature.
2. Prepare for fermentation:
*Once cool, stir in 3–4 cups of lukewarm water to make it drinkable and smooth.
*Add yeast (if using) and mix well.
*Traditional method: instead of yeast, keep a small portion of mageu from a previous batch to use as a starter culture.
*Cover the mixture loosely with a lid or cloth (so air can pass through) and leave it to ferment at room temperature.
3. Ferment:
*Let it stand for 1–3 days, depending on how sour you like it.
*1 day = mild taste.
*2–3 days = stronger, tangy flavour.
*Stir occasionally during fermentation.
4. Strain and flavour (optional)
*Once fermented to your liking, strain it through a sieve for a smoother texture (optional).
*Add sugar to taste if desired.
*Transfer to bottles or a jug and refrigerate — it will thicken slightly as it chills.
Serve chilled!
*Enjoy your homemade mageu cold.
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