While Zambia is renowned for its rugged paths, diverse wildlife and magnificent cascades of water, the country is also home to some of the most unique culinary options. Here are some of the Zambian essentials for daily meals and snacks. 

Nshima

Nshima is popularly known as the staple carbohydrate of Zambia and is ideally found at most Livingstone restaurants. This delicious preparation is sourced from corn, which is processed into a mealie meal. It is then cooked and served once reaching a thick texture. The corn can also be substituted by cassava, millet or sorghum and be served alongside protein and vegetables.

Kiranrad, Nshima and Beef Relish from Proteas Hotel, Chingola, Zambia, CC BY-SA 4.0

Vegetables

Vegetables are one of the most important parts of a Zambian menu and therefore will often be available at Avani Victoria Falls Resort’s in-house restaurants and other lodgings in the region. While these vegetable dishes are based on seasonal availability, some of the most frequently used ones can be named as pumpkin leaves, a species of hibiscus, sweet potato leaves as well a species of okra that is fried or boiled with bicarbonate of soda for a unique flavour. 

Chikanda

Popularly known as African polony, Chikanda is a wholesome, vegetarian delicacy that displays the consistency of a meatloaf. This traditional dish is a Zambian favourite and is often served by the Bemba people from the Northern Province of Zambia. The ingredients for Chikanda include wild orchid tubers, chilli, peanuts and baking soda, which is cooked and served either hot or cold. 

Vitumbuwa

Have you tried the Zambian version of fried dough balls? Vitumbuwa is prepared using flour, sugar, water and yeast and can easily be discovered at markets all across the country. These fritters are often served wrapped in a newspaper and are a favourite teatime snack for the locals.