Crispy Zimbabwean Sadza Balls with Tomato Relish
Experience the delightful crunch of sadza balls paired with a tangy and vibrant tomato relish, a perfect fusion of texture and flavor.

Preparation
Get these tasks done before you start cooking.
Preparing the Sadza
- 1
Boil Water
Bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a pot.
- 2
Make Cornmeal Paste
In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup water with the cornmeal to form a smooth paste.
- 3
Cook Sadza
Gradually add the paste to the boiling water, stirring continuously until thickened.
Preparing the Tomato Relish
- 1
Sauté Onions
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until translucent.
- 2
Simmer Tomatoes
Stir in tomatoes and vinegar; season with salt and pepper. Simmer until thickened.
Tip: 💡 Prepare ahead to let flavors meld deeply.
How to Make Crispy Zimbabwean Sadza Balls with Tomato Relish
Total time: 2 h · Yields 4 servings
- 1
Shape Sadza Balls
Once sadza has cooled, shape into small balls.
- 2
Bread the Balls
Roll balls in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs and paprika.
- 3
Fry Until Golden
Deep fry the balls in hot oil until golden and crispy; drain on paper towels.
Chef's Tips
Frequently asked questions
How long can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, you can prepare sadza and relish a day in advance; fry just before serving.
Can I bake the sadza balls instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 450°F (230°C) for about 20 minutes until crisp.
Are there gluten-free options for breading?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour as substitutes.
How can I make it vegan?
Replace eggs with a plant-based substitute like aquafaba or flaxseed meal.
You might also love
Browse all recipes
Balsamic Glazed Steak Skewers with Blackberry Relish

Mango Habanero Glazed Chicken Wings

Lemon Herb Chimichurri Shrimp with Harissa Orzo

Strawberry Balsamic Basil Flatbread

Spicy Shrimp Tostadas with Avocado Crema

Tomato Burrata Salad with Basil Pesto Oil
Explore more from TastyFood
Looking for something different? Browse by category.