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.

Crispy Zimbabwean Sadza Balls with Tomato Relish

Name: Crispy Zimbabwean Sadza Balls with Tomato Relish
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Appetizer
Ingredients: 2 cups fine white cornmeal (sadza); 4 cups water; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon paprika; 4 ripe tomatoes, finely chopped; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste; Vegetable oil for deep frying

A Crunchy Twist on a Traditional Staple

Experience the delightful crunch of sadza balls paired with a tangy and vibrant tomato relish, a perfect fusion of texture and flavor.

1 h 30 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

Sadza Balls

2 cups fine white cornmeal (sadza)

4 cups water

1 teaspoon salt

Breading

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 eggs, beaten

1 cup breadcrumbs

1 teaspoon paprika

Tomato Relish

4 ripe tomatoes, finely chopped

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon vinegar

Salt and pepper to taste

Frying

Vegetable oil for deep frying

Preparation

Preparing the Sadza

Boil Water

Bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a pot.

Make Cornmeal Paste

In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup water with the cornmeal to form a smooth paste.

Cook Sadza

Gradually add the paste to the boiling water, stirring continuously until thickened.

Preparing the Tomato Relish

Sauté Onions

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until translucent.

Simmer Tomatoes

Stir in tomatoes and vinegar; season with salt and pepper. Simmer until thickened.

💡 Prepare ahead to let flavors meld deeply.

Cooking Process

Shape Sadza Balls

Once sadza has cooled, shape into small balls.

Ensure the sadza is fully cooled before shaping.

Bread the Balls

Roll balls in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs and paprika.

Ensure even coating for a crisp crust.

Fry Until Golden

Deep fry the balls in hot oil until golden and crispy; drain on paper towels.

Maintain medium-high heat for even frying.

Plating & Serving