Glossary U
Deutsch: Nabel (kulinarisch) / Español: Ombligo (culinario) / Português: Umbigo (culinário) / Français: Ombilic (culinaire) / Italiano: Ombelico (alimentare)
The term Umbilicus in the context of food refers to a specific anatomical feature found in certain fruits and vegetables, particularly in varieties of squash, pumpkins, and melons. It describes the scar or indentation left on the fruit where it was attached to the plant's stem during growth. While often overlooked, the umbilicus plays a role in identifying cultivars, assessing ripeness, and determining post-harvest handling practices.
Did you know that Xoliswa Ndoyiya, Nelson Mandela’s chef, cooks Umngqusho every Wednesday for the former president.
Umngqusho is the most famous maize dish in Xhosa cuisine. This dried maize and bean mélange has been compared with Italian Risotto and is delicious when served with a meaty stew.
Umqombothi refers to a popular African beer that is made from maize which is mixed with Sorghum and yeast.
Moreover, Umqombothi refers to a traditional drink of South Africa, a home-brewed sorghum beer that is rich in Vitamin B and has a low alcohol content; a traditional grain-brewed beer which is milky in appearance with a yeasty, sour taste. Because of Umqombothi's nutritional value it is considered a type of food.