Umfino (Samp, Beans & Greens)
Umfino is a traditional South African dish made with samp, beans, and leafy greens. Affordable, filling, and nutritious, it can be enjoyed as a hearty main meal or a side dish.
Ingrédients
- 2 cups samp and beans (or sugar beans if you don’t have samp)
- Water (for boiling)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2–3 tbsp oil or butter
- 2 cups leafy greens (traditionally imifino like pumpkin leaves, wild spinach, or you can use spinach/kale)
- salt, to taste
- a little chilli, black pepper, or curry powder (Optional)
Instructions
- Cook the samp & beansWash well and soak overnight (important).Boil in fresh water for 2–3 hours until soft (or use a pressure cooker for ±45 minutes).Drain excess water but keep it slightly moist.
- Prepare the baseIn a large pot, heat oil or butter.Fry the chopped onion until soft and golden.
- CombineAdd the cooked samp and beans to the pot.Stir well and season with salt (and spices if using).
- Add the greensAdd chopped imifino/spinach.Stir and let it steam into the samp for about 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- FinishTaste and adjust seasoning.The texture should be soft, thick, and comforting—not dry.
