The following highlights some of the popular Traditional Zambian Foods. If you manage to be in an Zambian restaurant or you are visiting Zambia, I recommend the following
1. Vitumbuwa
The vitumbuwa are also known as fritters, they are prepared with water, yeast, sugar and wheat flour. The dough resulting from these ingredients should be formed into small balls and fried in hot oil. This preparation is served in newspapers and it is very common to compare it in the Zambian market. It is a preparation that can be enjoyed alone or together with various hot drinks.
2. Chikanda
It is commonly known as “African polony”, although it is totally vegetarian. Made with wild orchid tubers, peanuts, chili and baking soda, it is cooked to the consistency of meatloaf and served hot or cold.
3. Michopo
This dish consists of grilled meat prepared on the grill, the type of meat used may vary depending on the tastes of each individual. One of the most common is beef or goat meat. This preparation is usually accompanied with different types of vegetables, such as potatoes, tomato or onion. It is possible to buy Michopo in Zambian bars.
4. Ndiwo
It is one of the accompaniments to the maize porridge (nishima) that is the staple food in Zambia. It can be vegetarian, made only with vegetables and peanuts, or it can also be made with meat, fish or cooked insects.
5. Nshima
It is a soup made from corn flour, to which a large amount of vegetables, meats, beans, fish and sour milk is added. Obtaining in such a way a quite thick result. Due to the amount of ingredients used, it is a very nutritious and popular dish in the country, which is usually eaten at lunchtime.
6. Samp
It is a basic mixture of beans and corn, and is often served for breakfast or dinner. In Zambia it is often eaten with sugar and sour milk. It can also be served with sauce and various additives.
7. Kapenta (Fish)
It is one of the most popular Zambian dishes that can be found. The same are small fish very similar to sardines, which must be fried for a few minutes in very hot oil. They are accompanied with onion and tomato, its flavor is quite delicious and can be enjoyed together with a great amount of preparations, such as white rice and vegetables.
8. Ifisashi
Its preparation consists of finely ground peanuts along with rapeseed and different types of vegetables. In addition, it is also common to find kapenta, chikanda and potatoes in this dish. Ifisashi is served in small deep plates and can be found in many establishments.
9. Ifishimu
These caterpillars are a delicacy in Zambia. They are sold in some markets and are even served as an appetizer in some restaurants. Caterpillars can be prepared, cooked or fried. In the first case, the sensation is similar to eating steamed meat, while fried caterpillars are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The taste is reminiscent of meat, which will make you forget all your preconceived ideas about eating insects.
10. Inswa
They are flying ants called ‘inswa’. The wings are pulled off and the bodies are fried in oil. They are rich in protein and can be eaten as a snack or as a side dish with nshima. It is common to enjoy this typical Zambian dish as a snack between meals, as an afternoon snack or as a side dish with main dishes.
If you found this list useful, here are some more Traditional African Foods to try out on my Pinterest channel.