Food in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe, a landlocked gem in Southern Africa, is often celebrated for its majestic wildlife and the mighty Victoria Falls. Yet, it also boasts a rich culinary heritage that reflects a blend of traditional African food practices and post-colonial influences. For tourists seeking to immerse themselves in local flavors, Zimbabwean cuisine offers a variety of hearty dishes that are sure to satisfy. From the staple sadza to the unique tastes of game meat, discover the must-try foods that encapsulate the essence of Zimbabwe's diverse gastronomy.

Zimbabwean Dishes

Sadza

Sadza is the staple food of Zimbabwe. It's a thickened porridge made from white cornmeal (maize) and is similar to South Africa’s pap or the American grits. Sadza is typically served with vegetables or meaty stews and sauces. It's eaten with the hands, and diners usually roll it into a ball and dip it into accompanying dishes.

Nhedzi

Nhedzi is a rich, flavorful soup made from wild mushrooms, which are abundant in Zimbabwe. The soup is a delicacy and is seasoned with onions, garlic, and sometimes chicken stock. Its creamy texture and earthy flavors make it a favorite during the colder months.

Kapenta

Kapenta is a type of small, freshwater fish that is native to Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe. These fish are often dried or fried and served with sadza. When fried, they are typically cooked with onions, tomatoes, and groundnut powder, which adds a nutty flavor to the dish.

Muboora

Muboora is pumpkin leaves cooked until they reach a soft and palatable texture. The dish is usually flavored with peanut butter, giving it a creamy and rich taste. Muboora is a common side dish and is often served alongside sadza and a protein such as beef or chicken.

Mazondo

Mazondo, or cow heels, is a traditional Zimbabwean dish known for its succulence and unique texture. The heels are slow-cooked until the tendons are tender. They're often served in a rich gravy and eaten with sadza. This dish is revered for its flavor and is a common sight at traditional gatherings.

Mupunga unedovi

Mupunga unedovi translates to "rice with peanut butter." It is a simple yet rich dish combining rice with peanut butter, creating a creamy and savory side that complements vegetable and meat dishes. This dish showcases the importance of peanuts in Zimbabwean cuisine.

Nyama

Nyama, which simply means "meat" in Shona, refers to various meat dishes, with beef and chicken being the most common. These meats are often prepared as stews with tomatoes, onions, and local spices. Grilled or barbecued meat, known as Nyama yekugocha, is also popular, especially for social events.

Delele

Delele, also known as okra or ladyfingers, is a mucilaginous vegetable cooked in a similar fashion to muboora. It's often mixed with baking soda to enhance its sliminess and is sometimes combined with tomatoes and onions. Delele is another common side dish for sadza.

Zimbabwean Desserts

Mapopo Candy

Mapopo candy is a sweet treat made from papaya, which is cooked and then sun-dried. It's often rolled in sugar and can be flavored with ginger or other spices. This chewy, fruity candy is a favorite among children and adults alike.

Chikenduza

Chikenduza, also known as "candy cakes," are colorful, sweet buns that are popular at celebrations. These buns are flavored with lemon, colored with food dye, and often coated with a sugar glaze. They are soft, sweet, and a festive addition to any meal.

Mbambaira

Mbambaira refers to sweet potatoes, which are enjoyed in a variety of ways in Zimbabwe. They can be boiled, roasted, or turned into sweet potato fries. Sometimes, they're mashed and sweetened with sugar or honey to make a simple dessert.

Tinkers

Tinkers are a type of confectionery similar to brittle. They are made by caramelizing sugar with baking soda and then mixing in nuts such as peanuts. The mixture is poured out to cool and harden before being broken into bite-sized pieces. Tinkers are a crunchy, sweet, and nutty snack.

Dovi

Dovi is a traditional Zimbabwean dish made with peanut butter, but it can also refer to a dessert where peanut butter is mixed with honey or syrup and spread over bread or used as a dip for fruits like bananas. It's a simple, rich, and nutritious treat.