Joanna James
Although few travellers visit Zambia with the specific purpose of tasting its local delicacies, the country's authentic cuisine remains one of the most underrated aspects of its culture. From local snacks to celebratory meals, here are some of the top local dishes to try in Zambia.
Also known as Dry Sardines, Kapenta is one of the most commonplace foods in Zambia. Sold at nearly every local market, the sardines are also called siavonga and mpulungu after the towns that produce large quantities of the dish. Easy to prepare, locals simply fry up the sardines and add crispy onions and tomatoes.
Considered a comfort food, Nshima is another popular food that's consumed almost daily. A rich porridge that's as wholesome as it is nutritious, Nshima is made using coarse flour. While it may not tingle the taste buds on its own, the meal can be delicious when served with some relish.
As another local dish which has maize as its base, Samp is made using finely ground flour which is then combined with sour milk or fresh milk. Other additions to the dish include roasted peanuts, sugar or even raw peanuts. Eaten for all three meals and as a snack, it is one of the most affordable options for locals in Zambia and is a particular favourite among children in boarding schools.
While digging into caterpillars or Mopane worms may not be for everyone, those with adventurous pallets can sample Ifinkubala during a visit to Zambia. Only available during the rainy period from November to March when these particular worms and caterpillars are found in great numbers, the creatures are dried before consumption. Usually paired with Nshima, these high-protein snacks can be eaten on their own too.
As one of the more unusual delicacies up for grabs in Zambia, Chikanda consists of wild orchids which are first fried and then pounded before being added to a mixture of groundnuts. This mixture is cooked until it achieves the consistency of meat and served with chilli powder seasoning. Considered a meal as well as a snack, Chikanda is a great pick-me-up any time of the day and is widely available through street food vendors near Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara and other rests.
Livingstone Zambia restaurants among others are known to serve up Kandolo, especially between January and July. Prepared in various ways, Kandolo is the local term for sweet potato. Baked, grilled, or roasted with the skin, boiled, or fried, Kandolo is a delicious and filling meal that can complement any breakfast, lunch or dinner meal.
Mushroom fanatics will love this dish which is ubiquitous in local eateries from October to January when this particular fungus is in season. The massive mushrooms are cleaned thoroughly before they are used in curries and dishes so those who purchase Tente from a local market must remember to clean out the sand before boiling the mushrooms.
Usually cooked with tomato and onion, Lumanda is a vegetable that's apparently good for those with hypertension.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
