Share
Zimbabwe, located in Southern Africa, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history. From the majestic Victoria Falls to the ancient ruins of Great Zimbabwe, the country boasts diverse attractions that captivate visitors. Zimbabwean cuisine has absorbed influences from various cultures, notably from neighbouring countries such as Zambia, Mozambique, and South Africa. This is evident in dishes like chikanda, a spicy peanut butter cereal, and nhopi, a Zimbabwean pumpkin dish similar to South African pumpkin.
Video Credit: Zimbokitchen
Zimbabwean cuisine is characterised by its diverse use of ingredients such as maize (corn), millet, sorghum, and various vegetables like pumpkin leaves (known as muboora), sweet potatoes, and okra. Meat, particularly beef, chicken, and goat, is also prominent, often prepared in stews and grilled over open fires.
Sadza is the cornerstone of Zimbabwean meals, a thick maize meal porridge that accompanies almost every dish. It serves not only as a carbohydrate base but also as a communal element, traditionally eaten with hands and used to scoop up sauces and stews.
As Zimbabwe continues to evolve, so too does its cuisine, with chefs and home cooks exploring modern interpretations while preserving traditional flavours and techniques. Here are some traditional dishes that are an important part of Zimbabwe’s cuisine.
Sadza
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Sadza is a staple food in Zimbabwean cuisine, made from finely ground cornmeal, it is cooked until it reaches a thick, dough-like consistency. Sadza is typically served with a variety of relishes, such as vegetable stews, meats, or beans. The dish is a fundamental part of the Zimbabwean diet, offering a simple yet hearty base that complements many flavours. It is typically served as the main component of a meal, accompanied by various side dishes and relishes. It is often paired with leafy green vegetables such as kale or spinach. The neutral taste of sadza makes it an excellent base that complements the bold flavors of these accompaniments.
Nyama
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Nyama simply means meat in Shona (the language of the majority tribe in Zimbabwe), but in the context of Zimbabwean cuisine, it often refers to a specific way of preparing and enjoying meat. Beef, goat, or chicken is typically grilled or stewed, often marinated with a mix of local spices, garlic, and onions. Nyama is usually served alongside sadza and vegetables, creating a balanced and satisfying meal that is enjoyed in homes and at social gatherings.
Muriwo Unedovi
Muriwo Unedovi is a popular dish that combines leafy green vegetables with a rich, creamy peanut butter sauce. This nutritious and flavourful dish is a staple in many Zimbabwean households, offering a unique way to enjoy greens with a delightful twist. The name ‘Muriwo Unedovi’ translates to ‘vegetables with peanut butter,’ and it showcases the clever use of locally available ingredients to create a comforting and satisfying meal. The vegetables, often kale or spinach, are sautéed with onions and tomatoes before being mixed with peanut butter, which makes the dish both savoury and slightly sweet. This dish is a favourite accompaniment to sadza.
Kapenta
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Kapenta refers to small, dried freshwater fish that are often caught in Lake Kariba. These tiny fish are typically sun-dried and can be eaten whole. Kapenta is commonly rehydrated and cooked with tomatoes, onions, and other vegetables to create a flavourful stew. It is often served with sadza and is a rich source of protein and has a distinctive, salty taste. It is rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals, making it an important dietary component, especially in communities where access to diverse protein sources is limited.
Mapopo Candy
Mapopo candy, also known as pawpaw candy, is a traditional Zimbabwean sweet treat made from papaya. The fruit is peeled, sliced, and cooked with sugar and lemon juice until it reaches a chewy, candy-like consistency. Often enjoyed as a snack or dessert, Mapopo candy showcases the tropical flavours of papaya in a delightful and portable form, making it a favourite among children and adults alike. It is often made at home for special occasions and celebrations. It represents a way to preserve and enjoy the flavours of papaya, especially when the fruit is in season.
Zimbabwean Chicken Stew
Zimbabwean chicken stew, also known as "road runner chicken," features free-range chickens that are prized for their flavour and texture. The chicken is slow-cooked with a blend of spices, tomatoes, and onions, resulting in a rich, hearty stew. This dish is typically served with sadza Zimbabwean chicken stew is typically served with sadza, a staple maize meal porridge that is a central part of Zimbabwean cuisine. It can also be accompanied by rice or traditional Zimbabwean bread known as "roti." The stew is often garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley, adding a touch of freshness and colour to the dish.
Chikenduza
Chikenduza, or Zimbabwean buns, are a popular snack and breakfast item. These sweet buns are soft, fluffy, and often topped with a bright pink or red icing. Made from a simple dough of flour, sugar, yeast, and butter, chikenduza is baked until golden brown and then glazed with a sugary icing. It is typically enjoyed fresh, when the rolls are still warm or at room temperature. They are often served alongside tea or coffee, making for a perfect snack or dessert option.
