Make the krummelpap: bring the 3 cups of water and salt to a boil in a pot.
Sprinkle the maize meal in slowly (don’t dump it in at once), stirring with a fork to form crumbs rather than a smooth pap.
Lower the heat, cover, and steam gently for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally with a fork to keep the texture crumbly.
Stir in 2 tbsp butter at the end.
Den Backofen auf 180°C vorheizen.
Grease an ovenproof dish with butter.
Spoon half the krummelpap into the dish, sprinkle with a little cheese if using.
Add the rest of the pap, spreading it evenly.
Pour the milk over the top (this keeps it moist while baking).
Sprinkle more cheese on top if you like.
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden and slightly crisp.
Serve warm as a side with stews, braai meat, or tomato smoor.