Umngqusho Crust

Introduction to Umngqusho Crust

Umngqusho is a traditional South African dish that is made from samp and beans. It is a beloved staple among the Xhosa people and is known for its hearty and comforting qualities. Traditionally, umngqusho is served with meat such as lamb or beef. However, in this recipe, we take a modern twist by creating an Umngqusho Crust, which can be used as a unique savory pie crust to encase your favorite fillings.

Ingredients

• Samp - 2 cups
• Beans (specifically black-eyed or sugar beans) - 1 cup
• Onion, chopped - 1 medium
• Garlic, minced - 2 cloves
• Butter or margarine - 2 tbsp
• Salt - 1 tsp
• Black pepper - 1 tsp
• All-purpose flour - 1 cup
• Eggs - 2, beaten
• Milk - 2 cups

Preparation

Preparing the Samp and Beans

Before beginning the crust, it's essential to prepare the samp and beans. These need to be cooked to a soft consistency.

1. Rinse the samp and beans thoroughly under cold water.

2. Soak them overnight in a large bowl of water to ensure they cook evenly.

3. After soaking, drain and rinse them again, then place them in a large pot with fresh water covering them completely.

4. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for approximately 2-3 hours until tender.

Making the Umngqusho Crust

Cooking Instructions

Now that the samp and beans are ready, let's proceed with making the crust.

1. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.

2. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.

3. Combine the cooked samp and beans in the skillet with the onion and garlic. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Mash the combination lightly with a fork or potato masher until it forms a slightly coarse paste.

5. Transfer this mixture into a large mixing bowl, allowing it to cool slightly.

6. Add the flour and mix well.

7. Incorporate the eggs and milk, blending until you get a pliable dough.

Forming the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to your desired thickness.

3. Press the dough into a pie pan or dish, trimming the edges as necessary.

4. Prick the base with a fork to prevent air bubbles.

5. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the crust is golden.

Serving Suggestions

The Umngqusho Crust is versatile and pairs wonderfully with numerous fillings, including savory stews or hearty vegetable mixtures. Consider pairing it with traditional South African dishes for an authentic experience.

Enjoying Your Umngqusho Crust

Serve the pie warm, cut into generous slices. This dish is best enjoyed with friends and family, accompanied by a fresh salad. Don't forget to set a timer during baking to ensure perfect results every time.