AUGUST 28 marks the sombre anniversary of Hollywood star Chadwick Boseman's passing. To honour the late actor and his most iconic role as King T'Challa of Wakanda, Slurrp prepares a feast drawing culinary inspiration from the fictional African nation as depicted in the Black Panther films. Food is not explicitly featured in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, so we looked to the traditional cuisines from the continent of Africa, blending these influences with what we've seen of Wakanda.
Incidentally, did you know there is a Marvel's Black Panther: The Official Wakanda Cookbook? Author Nyanyika Banda has shared valuable insights for the dishes that might have been enjoyed by the royals and the people of the Wakanda kingdom.
Maafe Ground Peanut Stew
We begin the feast with a traditional Wakandan appetiser of spiced groundnut stew, also known as "Maafe." Drawing inspiration from the official "Black Panther" cookbook, this stew is made with sweet potatoes, tomatoes, black-eyed peas and an assortment of warming African spices. The stew is served with fufu or rice for mopping up every last bite.
Jabari Crunch Salad
Bute into the crunchy Crunch Salad—a medley of fresh leafy greens, vibrant vegetables, roasted nuts and tangy salad dressing. This dish sets the tone for your feast, symbolising the diverse culture and traditions of Wakanda.
Harissa-Spiced Lamb Kabobs
Lamb kabobs seasoned with harissa, a classic North African spice blend, capture the vibrant flavours of Wakanda. The spicy-sweet harissa pairs perfectly with tender cubes of lamb, grilled to perfection over an open flame. Picture yourself at one of Wakanda's bustling outdoor markets, browsing the stalls and taking in the sights and smells.
Peri-Peri Chicken with Jollof Rice
Tender chicken pieces are coated in a signature peri-peri seasoning blending spicy African chilies with lime. This creates a dish that is both vibrant and flavourful. The peri-peri chicken is accompanied by jollof rice, a pilaf made bright yellow from tomatoes, peppers and onions. Together these dishes represent the diversity of African cuisines, with the peri-peri chicken providing coastal influences and the jollof rice bringing flavours similar to variations across West Africa.
Village-Style Curried Chicken
Village-Style Curried Chicken is a comforting dish reminiscent of gatherings in Wakanda's villages or even tribal council meetings that evoke the essence of the Wakandan community. Tender chicken simmers in a curry sauce with warm spices, filling the air with aromatic scents of community. As you enjoy each bite of the curried protein, reflect on the unity and traditions that King T'Challa upheld for his people. His portrayal of the Black Panther showed the strength and pride in family that can be found even in non cosmopolitan settings.
Ugali and Fish
A simple yet satisfying meal of ugali, a thick maize porridge that is a staple across East Africa, paired with tender tilapia caught fresh from the banks of Lake Victoria: The flaky white fish is perfectly suited to Ugandan cooking styles like grilling, and its mild flavour allows the natural taste to shine through. Together ugali and fish make a nourishing, humble dish that has nourished communities for generations — just as Wakanda has provided for its people through times of change.
Butterfly Pea Tea Lemonade
No Wakandan feast would be complete without a refreshing beverage paying homage to the heart-shaped herb that imbues the Black Panther with power. Our drink of choice is a "Butterfly Pea Tea Lemonade." Made with butterfly pea flower tea, lemonade, ginger beer and honey, this vivid purple beverage resembles the mystical herb in appearance and taste.
Dawa Cocktail
Raise a glass of the Dawa cocktail—a beloved drink across Kenya, that is a refreshing blend of honey-sweetened vodka and tart lime juice. Simple yet balanced ingredients come together in this concoction that perfectly suits the country's warm climate. Light, crisp and delicately sweet, it quenches the thirst while masking the alcohol's strength.
Mango Bread Pudding
Layers of sweet ripe mangoes and chiffon bread cubes are baked until custard-y in this delightful dessert. Local mangoes bring their tropical sunshine to this comforting dessert. A warm treat that celebrates Wakanda's bountiful orchards and the bright future of its people, this dish features the locally enjoyed mango.
Nut Brittle
Reminiscent of our popular chikki; the crunchy brittle is studded with an assortment of nuts grown across Wakanda's (Africa) fertile lands. Peanuts, cashews and almonds baked into an addictive snack, reflecting the kingdom's agricultural prosperity and the strength within its diversity.
Chadwick Boseman brought the fictional world of Wakanda to life with his charismatic performance as T'Challa, inspiring millions around the world. While he is dearly missed, his representation and the joy he brought will live on forever in film and through cultural events like this commemorative feast. Wakanda forever!