In this blog we made a collection of the best Zambian food you should try while you visit.
#1 Nshima
Nshima is the staple food of Zambia and a common dish for every ethnic group of the country. Made from finely ground maize flour called mealie meal, cooked by mixing the corn meal with hot water to make a very thick porridge. It is served with a choice of relish (known as ndiwo) usually meat or fish and one or two vegetables.
#2 IfisashiA traditional Zambian dish made by mixing pounded peanuts, tomatoes, onions and vegetables such as spinach, collard greens, pumpkin leaves or cassava leaves. The mixture is cooked in the peanut sauce until it achieves a desired consistency. Prepared during traditional ceremonies and family gatherings.
#3 ChikandaOften referred to as African polony because of its meat-like texture, this dish is entirely vegetarian, prepared with wild orchid tubers. The tubers are dried and pounded then combined with a mixture of pounded peanuts, bicarbonate soda and chilli.
#4 IfinkubalaCaterpillars are a popular delicacy in Zambia, they are soaked in hot water for a few minutes then fried in oil, add some tomato and onion and usually served with nshima.
#5 KapentaSmall dried sardine-type fish that are fried in oil with some tomatoes and onions and served in with nshima.
#6 Tute ne MbalalaThis is a country favourite snack. Dried Casava is soaked in water for a couple of days then roasted on a brazier and served with roasted peanuts.
#7 DeleleTraditional dish prepared with a local plant or often times okra that is cooked by boiling water, alongside sliced tomatoes and bicarbonate. It is well known for its slimy texture.
#8 VitumbuwaFritters are fried dough balls of flour, sugar, yeast and water. They are a common tea time snack.
#9 VegetablesThere are plenty of seasonal vegetables that are eaten in Zambia such as spinach, collard greens, okra, pumpkin leaves, cassava.
Love to try Zambian food ? Contact Ntanda Ventures and share your wishes and we add the best culinary experiences on your safari holiday.
