Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with some delicious Zambian flavors? From comforting stews to delightful snacks, Zambian cuisine is a vibrant mix of spices and traditions that makes every meal an adventure. Let’s explore these easy recipes that will bring a taste of Zambia right into your kitchen!
Nsima
Nsima is the heart of Zambian meals, a staple that is both simple and satisfying. This thick porridge made from maize flour has a mild flavor, making it the perfect companion for a variety of sauces and stews.
- 2 cups maize flour
- 5 cups water
What makes nsima special is its versatility; it’s enjoyed with almost every meal in Zambia. You can pair it with relishes, meats, or vegetables, making it a beloved dish across the country.
Related Videos
Nsima Inyang
(youtube.com)

HOW TO COOK NSIMA//Malawi's staple food recipe
(youtube.com)

HOW TO MAKE: NSIMA (A traditional Malawi food)
(youtube.com)
Chikanda (African Polony)

Chikanda is a unique dish that resembles a savory cake, made from ground nuts and wild orchids. The nutty flavor combined with its chewy texture makes it a delightful snack or side dish.
- 1 cup ground peanuts
- 1 cup grated wild orchid tubers (you can substitute with cassava)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups water
- Salt to taste
This dish is often prepared for special occasions and is a true representation of Zambian ingenuity using local ingredients. Chikanda is not only delicious but also a conversation starter, as many people are curious about its unique preparation!
Related Videos

How to Prepare Chikanda ( African Polony)
(youtube.com)

Zambian Food | Chikanda African Ham (Polony) Recipe
(youtube.com)

Cooking Chikanda (African Polony)
(youtube.com)
Sadza with Beef Stew

This comforting dish features nsima paired with a hearty beef stew. The rich, savory flavors of the stew complement the creamy texture of the nsima, creating a meal that warms both the heart and the stomach.
- 2 cups nsima
- 500g beef, cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 2 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sadza with beef stew is a popular choice for family gatherings and celebrations. The combination of flavors creates a satisfying dish that will make everyone at the table feel at home.
Related Videos

Zimbabwe Sadza and Beef Stew Recipe
(youtube.com)

Sadza – Beef Stew & Spring Greens
(youtube.com)
Kapenta (Small Fish)

Zambian Fish Curry with Nshima from Black Foodie
Ingredients: Curry powder, chinese cabbage, tomato paste, tomatoes, meal

Ifisashi & Nshima from 196 flavors
Rating: 2.3. Ingredients: Sweet potato, pumpkin, millet flour, green cabbage, tomatoes Total Time: 1 hr.
Kapenta are tiny, dried fish that pack a punch of flavor. Often fried or sautéed with tomatoes and onions, they are a popular source of protein and add a delicious umami taste to any meal.
- 1 cup kapenta
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
This dish is special not only for its taste but also for its role in Zambian diets, especially in rural areas. Kapenta is often enjoyed with nsima, making it a delightful and nutritious meal.
Related Videos

HOW TO COOK DRIED KAPENTA (MATEMBA)
(youtube.com)
Ifisashi (Vegetable Stew)
Ifisashi is a delicious vegetable stew that showcases the fresh produce of Zambia. Typically made with pumpkin leaves or other greens, it’s cooked in groundnut sauce, creating a creamy and flavorful dish.
- 2 cups pumpkin leaves or spinach
- 1 cup ground peanuts
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups water
- Salt to taste
This dish is cherished for its blend of earthy flavors and is a great way to incorporate healthy greens into your diet. Ifisashi is not just a side dish; it can easily be a meal on its own, especially when served with nsima.
Related Videos

Addictive Vegan stew | Ifisashi from Zambia #recipes
(youtube.com)
Ifisashi & Nshima – Authentic Zambian Recipe
(196flavors.com)
Mapopo (Papaya) Salad
Mapopo salad is a refreshing and colorful dish that combines ripe papaya with a zesty dressing. Its sweet and tangy flavor profile makes it a perfect side dish for any meal.
- 2 ripe papayas, peeled and diced
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt to taste
- Optional: chopped mint leaves
This salad is popular during hot months, providing a light and nutritious option. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make mapopo salad a hit at barbecues and family gatherings.
Related Videos

Thai Chef Makes Green Papaya Salad (som tum pla ra)
(youtube.com)
Mutomolo (Groundnut Soup)
Mutomolo is a creamy groundnut soup that is both hearty and nutritious. With its rich peanut flavor and aromatic spices, this soup is a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out.
- 1 cup ground peanuts
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
This soup is often enjoyed on chilly evenings and is a favorite among families. The simplicity of its ingredients makes it easy to prepare, while the flavor is anything but basic!