I have said it before from the time I got burnt by a splat, cooking this stuff can be dangerous business with pleasantly filling rewards. When we speak of subsistence farming, we are referring to the practice of growing crops or raising livestock, sufficient only for use without surplus for trade. Maize is the most popular crop grown in Botswana because it matures fast, takes a short time to harvest and still thrives in semi-arid regions with reliance on once off rains. It has become a staple food in many parts of the world with our nation being no exception. Maize is rich in fibre and plant compounds that may aid in digestive and eye health.
Like any other food when consumed in excess, one can make themselves vulnerable to unwanted discomfort if they over indulge. This is why it is always advised to eat phaleche in moderation, having controlled portions in the day time to give yourself time to digest and very little in the evening. As with many starches, maize meal has a high glycaemic index (GI) - a measure of how much a food increases blood sugar - although that GI varies depending on how it’s consumed, i.e. hot or cold, firm or runny. In many instances maize meal is consumed excessively because it is relatively affordable and is an African food security staple that can be eaten two or three times a day.
