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The African Gourmet: Folktales, Cuisine & Cultural History

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South African Freedom Amasi Scones Recipe

Many South Africans grew up drinking sour fermented milk or Amasi which is regarded as a traditional food. Making scones with Amasi adds a unique flavor.

Amasi is sour tasting, great for baking and can be used as a substitute for buttermilk
Amasi Scones 

In the book Long Walk to Freedom, written by Nelson Mandela mentions how he hurriedly left his hideout at a white friend’s apartment when he was on the run from the South African Apartheid government after he overheard two Zulu laborers comment that it was strange to see milk on the windowsill left out to ferment.

The two labors were referring to amasi or fermented milk, an ancient probiotic drink popular with many South African tribes but especially with the Xhosa, Afrikaans, and Zulu. Amasi is sour-tasting, great for baking, and can be used as a substitute for buttermilk.

African food recipes are easy to make at home.

South African Long Walk To Freedom Amasi Scones Recipe.

Ingredients
2 cups cake flour, sifted
½ cup butter softened
1 cup fresh blueberries
1 large egg
1 cup Amasi
¼ cup cream
3 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon white sugar
1 egg, beaten for glazing

Directions
Preheat the oven to 425°F. Put the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar into a mixing bowl. Rub the butter into the flour mixture, using your fingertips, until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.

Beat egg and Amasi together. Make a well in the center of the flour and add Amasi mixture. Using a butter knife gently cut into the liquid to form soft dough. Place the dough on a lightly floured surface and gently roll to a thickness of 2 cm.

Cut out rounds using a cookie-cutter. Place the scones on a greased baking tray. Brush the tops with egg. Bake for 10 - 12 minutes or until puffed up and golden brown.

Making amasi is easy

Take make amasi fermented milk simply leave raw milk to naturally ferment at room temperature in a clay pot until thick curds form this may take 2–3 days.

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African Gourmet FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The African Gourmet blog about?

The African Gourmet explores African food, history, and culture through recipes, folktales, and proverbs written for curious readers worldwide.

Who writes The African Gourmet?

The blog is written and curated by Ivy, a lifelong historian and storyteller who highlights Africa’s culinary and cultural richness.

How can I find African recipes on this site?

Use the “African Recipes” category or explore posts like African Recipes for regional dishes and ingredients.

Can I share or reprint your articles?

You may share articles with attribution and a link back to The African Gourmet. Reprinting in print or commercial use requires permission.

Where can I learn more about African proverbs and folklore?

Explore our African Proverbs and African Folktales sections for timeless wisdom and stories.

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