Rice Fufu
Recipe GLPR9913a97e260ee4
A traditional African dish made from blended rice that is slowly cooked into a smooth, thick paste-like consistency. Rice is soaked, ground into a fine slurry, then stirred continuously over medium heat until it reaches a dense, creamy texture similar to mashed potatoes. The cooked fufu is steamed to ensure the rice is fully tender, then molded and served alongside meat stews or soups. This comforting staple is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and full of wholesome grain nutrition.
Save recipes you love
Create a free Grocery List Plus account to save recipes, rate them, and add every ingredient to your grocery list in one tap.
Ingredients
2 cups white rice
5 cups water for soaking
2 cups water for blending
1 cup water for steaming
Directions
Soak the rice in 5 cups of cold water for at least 8 hours, or overnight. Alternatively, soak in hot water for 8 hours. This softens the rice and prepares it for blending.
Drain and rinse the soaked rice thoroughly under clean running water until the water runs mostly clear. Place the rinsed rice in a blender with about 2 cups of fresh water.
Blend the rice and water on high speed until the mixture becomes smooth and milky white in consistency, resembling a thick cream.
Pour the blended rice mixture into a heavy-bottomed pot. Stir well to prevent the rice from immediately settling to the bottom. Place the pot over medium heat.
Using a whisk, continuously stir the rice mixture, making sure to reach all corners and the bottom of the pot. This prevents lumps from forming and ensures even cooking. Continue whisking for about 5 to 7 minutes as the mixture begins to thicken.
As the fufu thickens and becomes too dense for comfortable whisking, switch to a sturdy wooden spoon. Continue stirring constantly, pressing the spoon against the walls and bottom of the pot to cook the rice evenly and break up any lumps that form.
Keep stirring until the fufu reaches a thickness slightly thicker than mashed potatoes, about 10 to 12 minutes total cooking time. The mixture should be very dense and hold its shape.
Add 1 cup of water to the pot and stir to combine. Cover the pot with a lid and reduce heat to low. Steam for 10 to 15 minutes, until the rice is completely tender and cooked through.
The fufu is ready when it takes on a slightly darker, more muted white color compared to its initial pale appearance. Taste a small spoonful to confirm the rice is fully cooked with no grainy texture remaining.
To serve and preserve moisture, scoop the desired portion of fufu onto plastic wrap or cling film, wrap it tightly into a ball or mound, and set aside until ready to eat.
Unwrap the fufu and serve it warm alongside your choice of meat stew, soup, or vegetable-based sauce.