I was not there when it was prepared so I looked the instructions up online. It is made by mixing maize meal with water to form a paste, which is then stirred into boiling water and cooked until it reaches a stiff, dough-like consistency. It is usually served in a dome shape on an individual's plate or in a mound for sharing with others.
The food is connected to the local environment in that nshima is widely available as most people eat it daily. It has significance as well, representing culture and unity.
