Likoena tsa Poone
Likoena tsa Poone (lee-koh-EH-nah tsah POH-neh)
Corn Fritters
Crispy golden fritters made from fresh corn kernels mixed with flour and egg, fried until crunchy on the outside and tender within. A popular snack that celebrates Lesotho's abundant corn harvest.
Nutrition & Info
Allergen Warnings
Equipment Needed
Instructions
-
1
Roughly mash half the corn kernels
-
2
Mix whole and mashed corn with flour, eggs, onion, salt, and pepper
-
3
Heat 1cm oil in a frying pan over medium heat
-
4
Drop spoonfuls of batter into hot oil
-
5
Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown
-
6
Drain on paper towels
-
7
Serve hot with chakalaka or on their own
Did You Know?
The best corn fritters are made with corn so fresh it was picked that morning. Basotho farmers' markets in Maseru are famous for vendors who shuck and grate the corn right in front of you.
Chef's Notes
Equipment Tips
- mixing bowl
- frying pan
- slotted spoon
The Story Behind Likoena tsa Poone
Corn fritters evolved as a creative way to use fresh corn during the abundance of harvest season. While fried foods became more common in Lesotho with the introduction of cooking oil, the fritter format perfectly suited the Basotho love of corn.
Fritters became a popular street food in Maseru and other towns during the mid-20th century, sold by women at bus stations and marketplaces. They offered an affordable, filling snack for workers and travelers.
Today these fritters bridge traditional and modern Basotho cooking, using ancestral corn in a preparation that appeals to contemporary tastes.
More Basotho (Lesotho) Dishes
Easy
📜 Story
Chakalaka
Spicy Vegetable Relish
Accompaniment to any meal
Hard
📜 Story
Joala ba Sesotho
Traditional Sorghum Beer
Ceremonies, community gatherings, celebrations
Easy
📜 Story
Lekhotloane
Roasted Corn on the Cob
Afternoon snack, harvest season
Medium
📜 Story
Lepu
Basotho Steamed Bread
Served with stews at celebrations
Comments (0)
Log in to leave a comment.
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!