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Maas (Amasi)

South African · Drink

A traditional Southern African fermented milk drink, known for its thick, creamy consistency and refreshing tartness. It is a staple across many African cultures, often enjoyed on its own or with maize porridge.

No cookVegetarianGluten free
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Maas (Amasi) — recipe cover
2 days 5 minA little patience, a lot of flavor
Prep time5 min
Cook timeNo cook
Servings4 people
DifficultyEasy
Let's make something good

How to make it

5 steps. Take it one step at a time.

  1. Pour the full cream milk

    Pour the full cream milk into a clean, sterilized glass jar or a traditional calabash.

  2. Cover the opening of the jar

    Cover the opening of the jar with a breathable piece of muslin cloth or cheesecloth. Secure it with a rubber band to keep out dust while allowing airflow.

  3. Place the jar in a warm, dark place away from direct sunlight

    Place the jar in a warm, dark place away from direct sunlight. Let it sit undisturbed for 24 to 48 hours at a room temperature of approximately 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).

    2 days
  4. Check the milk after 24 hours

    Check the milk after 24 hours. Once it has thickened and developed a distinct, pleasant sour aroma, the fermentation is complete. Stir gently to reach a smooth consistency.

  5. Optional: For a thicker consistency similar

    Optional: For a thicker consistency similar to Greek yogurt, strain off the watery liquid (whey) that may have separated. Refrigerate before serving.

A little kitchen wisdom

For the most authentic flavor, use unhomogenized full-cream milk. Traditionally, this is made in a dried gourd (calabash), but a sterilized glass jar works perfectly in modern kitchens.

What you'll need

Glass jarMuslin clothRubber band
Keep the good going

For now. And for later.

Make it ahead

Maas is naturally a make-ahead item as it requires 2 days to ferment.

Store & enjoy

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Serve chilled; do not heat as it will curdle.

Allergens

Contains milk.

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An AI-created recipe from the EZdish collection. Ingredient quantities and techniques have not been independently kitchen-tested. Published on this website . Updated . First published in the EZdish collection .

Maas (Amasi)
Step 1 of 5

Pour the full cream milk

Pour the full cream milk into a clean, sterilized glass jar or a traditional calabash.