Cuisine

Mozambican cuisine

Mozambican cuisine is heavily influenced by the country's history of colonization and trade. The Portuguese brought ingredients like chilies, tomatoes, and maize, while Indian traders introduced spices like cumin and coriander. The cuisine is characterized by its use of seafood, coconut milk, and spices. Popular dishes include peri-peri chicken, matapa (a stew made with cassava leaves and peanuts), and piri-piri prawns.

African cuisine› Southern African cuisine

Spicy, Flavorful, Tangy, Savory, Sweet

Grilling, Stewing, Frying, Roasting, Boiling

Typical ingredients

Seafood (prawns, crab, lobster), Chicken, Cassava leaves, Peanuts, Coconut milk, Chilies, Tomatoes, Maize, Cumin, Coriander

The peri-peri chili pepper, which is used in many Mozambican dishes, is native to Mozambique and is now grown all over the world.

More cuisines from this region...

South African cuisine, Malagasy cuisine, Mauritian cuisine, Malawian cuisine, Seychellois cuisine, Zambian cuisine, Zimbabwean cuisine, Botswana cuisine, Namibian cuisine, Cuisine of Eswatini

History

Mozambique was colonized by the Portuguese in the 16th century, and the cuisine reflects this history. The country's location on the Indian Ocean also made it a hub for trade, which brought Indian and Arab influences to the cuisine. Mozambican cuisine has also been influenced by neighboring countries like South Africa and Zimbabwe.

Cultural significance

Food is an important part of Mozambican culture, and meals are often shared with family and friends. Mozambican cuisine is also known for its use of spices and chili peppers.

Health benefits and considerations

Mozambican cuisine is generally healthy, as it relies heavily on fresh seafood and vegetables. However, some dishes may be high in fat or sodium.

Mozambican cuisine dishes

Sombi

Coconut milk pudding

Sombi is a sweet and creamy coconut milk soup that is popular in West African cuisine. It is made with sweet potatoes, cassava, and plantains, and is flavored with ginger,...

Bolo Polana

Polana Cake

Bolo Polana is a traditional Mozambican cake that is made with ground cashews and coconut. It is a rich and flavorful dessert that is perfect for special occasions.

Cafriela de frango

Cafriela de frango is a Brazilian chicken dish that is made with coconut milk and spices. The dish is known for its creamy and slightly sweet flavor.

Kizaca

Kizaca is a traditional dish from the Dominican Republic. It is a hearty stew made with beef, vegetables, and spices. The dish is perfect for a cold winter day and is usually...