Green mealies are not just delicious but also packed with nutrients. From preventing malnutrition to boosting your immune system, these little powerhouses are a must-have in every South African kitchen.
In a recent article published on Health For Mzansi, consumers and experts share childhood memories and how green mealies played a vital role in their nutrition and growth.
According to Nhlakanipho Buthelezi from KwaZulu-Natal, green mealies played a significant role in his life. He emphasises the versatility of green mealies, explaining how they are used in various dishes.
“Growing up, we used to plough it, and then upon its ripeness, my grandmother would do many things with it to feed us as kids before it was taken to make maize.
“Surprisingly, I never experienced any malnutrition or negative effects from eating umbila, which is why I still take umbila even today as a snack,” Buthelezi says.
Delicious and nutritious
Despite some concerns, the nutritional value of green mealies makes them an essential part of a balanced diet.
Dietitian Unarine Sengani highlighted the nutritional value of green mealies, which are rich in vitamins and minerals, including B-complex vitamins, vitamins A, C, and K, and selenium.
“The presence of vitamins A, C, and K, together with selenium, helps improve the functioning of the thyroid gland and the immune system.”
The article concludes with a delicious cornbread recipe from Mtetwa, highlighting the versatility and universal appeal of this traditional dish.
“There are so many cornbread recipes, but all have one common ingredient, mealies, and I have yet to hear of a corn allergy, meaning cornbread is for everyone, which is the meaning behind the name [of my catering company] Isinkwa Sethu Sonke,” says Mtetwa.
This article was first published on Health For Mzansi and written by Candice Khumalo.
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