Zambia might not be the first country that comes to mind when you think about food, but the local cuisine here is full of hearty dishes and fresh ingredients. It’s a mix of traditional foods and colonial influences, but make no mistake, the Zambians take pride in their local eats. Let’s dive into what you should try when you’re traveling in Zambia.
Nshima – The Heart of Every Meal
If there’s one dish you have to try in Zambia, it’s Nshima. This is the country’s staple food, made from pounded maize that’s boiled into a thick porridge. It’s similar to polenta or grits. Nshima is typically served as a side to meats or vegetables. You’ll see this come with almost every meal, whether you’re in a big city or small village. Food in Zambia just isn’t complete without Nshima!
How to eat it? You break off a small piece with your hand, roll it into a ball, and use it to scoop up some stew, beans, or vegetables. It’s simple yet filling, and one plate will keep you going for hours.
Must-Try Traditional Dishes
1. Chikanda – Zambia’s ‘African Polony’
Chikanda looks like meatloaf but is made from wild orchid tubers, peanuts, and baking soda. It’s a delicacy you can easily find in markets and roadside stalls. The taste is earthy and slightly nutty, which surprises many tourists who expect it to taste like actual sausage. Try this when you’re walking around the local markets.
2. Ifisashi – Peanut Stew
Ifisashi is a thick stew made with vegetables like pumpkin leaves, spinach, or sweet potatoes mixed with ground nuts. It’s rich and creamy because of the peanuts. This vegetarian-friendly dish pairs gracefully with Nshima or rice, and every bite bursts with flavor. You’ll find Ifisashi in homes and small eateries across the country.
3. Kapenta – Small Fried Fish
Kapenta are tiny dried fish caught from lakes in Zambia, and they are typically fried to a crisp. They pack a briny punch and are often eaten as a snack or served with Nshima. You can buy them from street vendors, markets, or local restaurants. They’re nutritious and make for a light, crunchy meal on the go.
4. Zambian Beef or Chicken Stew
Zambia loves its stews. Don’t leave without trying a traditional beef or chicken stew, usually made with tomatoes, onions, and garlic. These stews are slow-cooked for rich flavors and are usually served alongside Nshima or rice. You can find beef or chicken stew at almost any local restaurant.
Popular Street Foods
1. Vitumbuwa (Fritters)
Street vendors love selling Vitumbuwa, which are small dough balls deep-fried to golden perfection. These tasty fritters are slightly sweet and enjoyed as a snack or breakfast dish. Locals eat them hot and fresh right out of the fryer; the perfect grab-and-go bite.
2. Roasted Maize
Roasted maize (corn) is a common street food, especially in busy bus stations and markets. Sellers will roast them over open coals, and you can munch on them as you walk. The taste is smoky, with a slight crispness to the kernels. Simple but oh-so-satisfying.
Regional Specialties
1. Inswa – Termites as a Snack
Don’t be shocked by this one! Inswa are edible flying termites, which are collected during the rainy season. They’re pan-fried and eaten as a crunchy snack. They have a nutty taste and are surprisingly popular during the right season (usually October-November). When in Zambia, why not give it a try?
2. Kandolo – Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes, locally known as Kandolo, are a common side dish or snack in Zambia. They’re often boiled, roasted, or fried. Kandolo is comforting and filling, perfect for a quick bite, especially during the rainy season when fresh produce is abundant.
Where to Eat
1. Local Markets
For an authentic experience, hit the local markets. Soweto Market in Lusaka is a hub for local food; you can pick up fresh Nshima, Ifisashi, or grilled meats. The markets in Livingstone also have amazing bites, letting you sample traditional snacks from various stalls. Bring your appetite and a sense of adventure.
2. Street Food Stalls
You can’t skip out on Zambia’s street food. Check out street vendors in Lusaka and other urban areas, where you’ll find grilled meats, fried Kapenta, roasted maize, and Vitumbuwa. It’s affordable and gives you a taste of how locals eat on a day-to-day basis.
3. Sit-Down Restaurants
For a more formal meal, try The Royal Dil in Lusaka for some of the country’s best traditional Zambian meals. Another favorite is Marlin Restaurant in Ndola, which combines Zambian ingredients with Western-style dishes for a fusion that works beautifully. These restaurants are great for a cozy sit-down dinner.
Zambian food is all about freshness and flavor. Whether you’re grabbing street food or sitting down for a full meal, make sure you dive headfirst into the food culture here. There are so many unique dishes and new flavors to savor.
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