Zambian cuisine

Zambian Cuisine is the traditional cuisine of Zambia, a country located in Southern Africa. The cuisine is heavily based on staple foods that are locally grown and sourced, with the most common being maize, also known as corn.

Overview

Zambian cuisine is largely based on nshima, a staple food made from ground maize. Nshima is typically served with a variety of side dishes including vegetables, beans, and meat. Other common ingredients in Zambian cuisine include peanuts, fish, and various types of wild game.

Ingredients

Maize

Maize is the most common staple food in Zambian cuisine. It is typically ground into a flour and used to make nshima. Maize is also used in a variety of other dishes, including porridges and beverages.

Meat and Fish

Meat is a common component of Zambian cuisine, with chicken, beef, and goat being the most commonly consumed. Fish is also a staple, particularly in regions near the country's many rivers and lakes.

Vegetables and Fruits

Zambian cuisine features a variety of locally grown vegetables and fruits. Common vegetables include cabbage, kale, and tomatoes, while common fruits include bananas, mangoes, and oranges.

Dishes

Nshima

Nshima is the national dish of Zambia. It is a type of porridge made from maize flour and water. Nshima is typically served with a variety of side dishes, known as "relishes," which can include meat, fish, vegetables, or beans.

Ifisashi

Ifisashi is a traditional Zambian dish made from greens and peanuts. The greens are typically spinach or pumpkin leaves, and the dish is often served with nshima.

Beverages

Traditional Zambian beverages include maize-based drinks such as munkoyo and chibwantu. Beer is also popular, with both commercially produced and traditional varieties available.

See Also

• African cuisine
• Culture of Zambia