How to Make Pap in the Microwave

Last Updated: March 31, 2023 Tested

Making delicious pap doesn't have to mean hours in front of a stove. Making that oh-so delicious South African porridge in the microwave not only saves time but it is also less messy and nothing is wasted since half the pap you make won't be left sticking to the side of the pot!

Steps

1
Measure out a cup of maize flour into the microwave bowl (1 cup should make enough for 3-4 people).
2
Add a pinch of salt, more than a pinch or none at all to suit your tastes.

Advertisement
3
Add just enough of the freshly boiled water to wet all the flour and work it in with the fork.
4
Set microwave on "High" and the timer for 10 minutes.^{[1]
X
Research source}
5
Put the lid on your bowl and pop it in the microwave.
6
Microwave for about a minute and then remove again.
7
Stir thoroughly with a little bit more water and return to the microwave.
8
Repeat this process (Remove, add a little water and stir, microwave again) 3 or 4 more times during cooking time at regular intervals - find a rhythm that works for you!^{[2]
X
Research source}

Warnings

Use oven mitts as the bowl will get really hot after the first couple of minutes.

⧼thumbs_response⧽
Helpful 9 Not Helpful 2
DO NOT forget about it after the first minute! If you neglect to add water and stir an incredibly dense layer of burnt maize will form and the bowl you were using will be a write off. It is only 10 minutes, so pay attention!

⧼thumbs_response⧽
Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
A cloud of super hot steam will escape every time you open to stir so take the lid off carefully and away from your face

⧼thumbs_response⧽
Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0