Anastasia Smith
Since the Portuguese conquest in the early 1800s, Mozambique has embraced the art of fusion cuisine, blending flavours from the African continent, European colonizers and even South Asian and Arab traders. The most notable culinary staple, born from the nation's chillies and Portuguese preparation, is the world-famous Piri-Piri, marinating dishes across Mozambique. While piri-piri chicken is undoubtedly the country's most famous creation with the sauce, venturing beyond this spicy concoction unlocks a world of unique and delicious flavours. From savoury snacks to comforting starches and delectable desserts, discover the must-try hidden, culinary gems of Mozambique
Xima, a fluffy cornmeal side dish, is the cornerstone of Mozambican cuisine. Similar to the famous Fufu, this versatile meal is prepared by slowly cooking maize flour with water until it reaches a thick, creamy consistency. Xima serves as a base for various stews and sauces, soaked up with the fingers or a spoon. Its mild flavour complements the bolder elements of a Mozambican meal, making it a comforting and satisfying staple.
Feijoada, a hearty stew with Portuguese influences, is a mainstay in Mozambican cuisine. This dish typically consists of black beans, various cuts of pork (including sausage), vegetables, and a rich tomato base. The slow-cooking process allows the flavours to meld beautifully, resulting in a deeply flavorful and satisfying stew. Feijoada is often served with rice and a side of fried plantains for a complete meal.
Mozambique's extensive coastline boasts an abundance of fresh seafood, and prawn curry with coconut milk is a delightful way to experience it. Large, succulent prawns are simmered in a creamy coconut milk sauce infused with fragrant spices like turmeric, paprika, and chillies. The result is a dish that is both rich and light, with a perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and the natural sweetness of the seafood. This dish is often served with rice or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy this seafood delicacy at Mozambique beach hotels, or resorts off the coast of the mainland. Savour a modern twist on Mozambican seafood at the Sonhos seaside restaurant at Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort, overlooking the clear seas of the Bazaruto archipelago.
Cooked over a charcoal grill and served on the beaches of Mozambique, this inexpensive delicacy packs enough flavour to forgo any additional ingredients. Magumba, a small flat sardine, is caught fresh from the ocean and grilled to a fine crisp. Very little marinade is used to prepare the dish, allowing the delectable flavour of the fish to shine.
Bolo Polana, a traditional Mozambican cake, provides the perfect sweet ending to any meal. This dense and moist cake is made with a combination of ingredients, notably sweet potatoes, peanuts, and coconut milk. The sweetness is further enhanced with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Bolo Polana is a delightful treat that showcases the use of indigenous ingredients in Mozambican desserts.
