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Ugali (Rwandan Cornmeal Porridge)

Ugali (Rwandan Cornmeal Porridge): a sourced backpacking stove recipe with measured ingredients and cooking instructions. Check ingredient storage instructions before your trip.

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Added October 9, 2026
Source: Recipe: Wikibooks contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/); extracted from linked revision; camping suitability and safety notes added. Photo: Olbyabc, CC BY-SA 3.0; https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ugali.jpg; https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0. Photo illustrates this dish on its source recipe page; not a Wild10 cooking-test photo.
Ugali (Rwandan Cornmeal Porridge)

Photo: Olbyabc · CC BY-SA 3.0. Source-recipe food photograph; not a Wild10 cooking-test photo.

Difficulty: Medium

Ingredients

  • •4 cups water
  • •2 cups cornmeal
  • •Salt , to taste

Instructions

  1. 1In a large pot, bring the water to a boil .
  2. 2Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the cornmeal to the boiling water, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon to prevent any lumps from forming.
  3. 3Continue stirring the mixture over low heat for about 15–20 minutes until it thickens and the cornmeal is cooked through. The porridge should have a smooth and thick consistency.
  4. 4Season with salt, to taste. Adjust the amount of salt according to your preference.
  5. 5Remove the pot from the heat and let the ugali rest for a few minutes before serving.

Camp tips

  • • Stir the ugali continuously while cooking to prevent any lumps from forming and to ensure a smooth texture.
  • • Adjust the consistency of the porridge by adding more water or cornmeal, depending on your preference. The amount of water can vary slightly depending on the type of cornmeal used.
  • • To prevent the cornmeal from clumping, you can mix it with a small amount of cold water before adding it to the boiling water.
  • • If the porridge becomes too thick while cooking, you can add a small amount of hot water and stir to achieve the desired consistency.
  • • For a richer flavor, you can substitute some or all of the water with milk or coconut milk .
  • • Add a tablespoon of butter or oil to the porridge while cooking for a slightly richer and creamier taste.
  • • Use potable water, wash hands, and pack out scraps. Never cook inside a tent. Check local fire restrictions.

Food safety & trail facts

Use potable water, wash hands, and pack out scraps. Never cook inside a tent. Check local fire restrictions.

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