When you think of Zambia, your mind might wander to scenes of breathtaking landscapes, the majestic Victoria Falls or incredible safari adventures. Yet, one of the most underrated features of Zambia is its culinary palette – offering a rich and flavourful food culture that’s as diverse and vibrant as its wild scenery.
Zambian fritters or Ifinkubala, anyone?
At Royal Zambezi Lodge, where we champion authentic and luxurious experiences, food is not just a sustenance – it’s an art form and a gateway to Zambia’s soul.
Having won the Best Culinary Experience in Zambia at the prestigious Haute Grandeur Awards – we pride ourselves on the ability to weave local flavours into unforgettable dining experiences.
Take it from the experts – let us walk you through some well-known Zambian cuisine, showcasing the best dishes in Zambia and the stories behind them.
Whether you’re a foodie, an adventurer or someone simply interested in the roots of African cuisine – this is your guide to savouring the authentic taste of Zambia.
The food in Zambia is deeply tied to its land, people and history. The dishes are built around fresh, locally sourced ingredients and have many years of tradition behind them. Central to Zambian cooking is maize, used to create nshima, a staple food akin to polenta or fufu, but uniquely Zambian in its preparation and cultural significance.
Beyond maize, Zambians draw on a hearty amount of produce – think leafy greens, groundnuts, beans and fresh fish from the abundant rivers like the mighty Zambezi. Combined with a series of fragrant spices and techniques passed down through generations, Zambian dishes are wholesome, tasty and utterly satisfying.
The cornerstone of Zambia foods, nshima is more than a dish – it’s a communal experience. Often known as Zambia’s staple food, it’s a thick porridge made from maize flour central to the nation’s culture and cuisine. Rooted in pre-colonial traditions, it symbolises unity and is paired with diverse relishes, including:
Did you know it is a Zambian custom to eat nshima with your hands?
Chikanda is a plant-based delicacy affectionately known as “African polony.” Made from orchid tubers and groundnuts, chikanda is a savoury, chewy, lightly spiced cake. Originally a food of resourceful hunters and gatherers, chikanda has grown into a beloved dish served at weddings, village gatherings and even urban kitchens.
Fun fact: The orchids used in Chikanda are wild-harvested, adding an earthy flavour that makes chikanda truly unique – an authentic taste of Zambia’s culinary heritage.
It’s a must-try for anyone curious about traditional African food innovations!
Chikanda is a brilliant example of African food ingenuity, due to its heavy protein content and the fact it’s entirely plant-based – making it a fantastic option for those interested in a vegan-friendly safari. For travellers with dietary requirements, we also offer a dedicated vegan menu to ensure our plant-based guests can enjoy Zambia’s rich food to the fullest!
It’s no secret that the rivers of Zambia provide an abundance of fresh fish (that’s why our angling experiences are so popular!). Fried bream or tilapia, often seasoned with salt and spices, is a simple yet delicious dish that celebrates the freshness of Zambian waters. A staple at lakeside markets and local homes, fried bream is often served with nshima and fresh relishes, creating a meal that’s both comforting and iconic.
Fun fact: Tilapia has been a vital food source in Zambia for generations, celebrated for its mild, flaky texture and the way it pairs perfectly with bold African spices.
For meat lovers, michopo is Zambia’s irresistible take on barbeque. The dish features grilled beef, goat or chicken marinated with garlic chilli and a blend of vibrant African flavours, then cooked over an open flame for a smoky, charred perfection. A favourite at social gatherings, michopo embodies the joy of communal dining and celebration.
Did you know that michopo means “roast” in local languages, and it’s often enjoyed with a cold Mosi beer, Zambia’s signature brew. Traditionally served straight from the grill, michopo captures the vibrant flavours of Zambian cuisine and the warmth of its hospitality.
Zambian village chicken is a true comfort food celebrated for its rich, free-range flavour. Traditionally cooked with minimal spices, this dish allows the natural taste of the chicken to shine. It is slow-cooked to perfection in a simple tomato-based sauce with garlic, onion and locally grown herbs, resulting in tender, juicy meat with a rustic, homey depth of flavour. Often served with nshima and seasonal vegetables, it’s a staple at family meals and festive occasions.
Fun fact: Known as “Road Runner” chicken, Zambian village chickens are raised naturally, roaming freely, which gives the meat its distinctive, robust taste – a culinary embrace that reflects the authenticity of Zambian rural life.
To wash it all down, try munkoyo – a refreshing, mildly fermented drink made from maize meal and munkoyo roots. A must-try, traditional drink – it is cherished for it’s probiotic benefits and earthy taste, making it both a treat and a tonic for the gut. Munkoyo has been brewed for centuries and is believed to aid digestion, making it a staple at community feasts and family gatherings across Zambia.
At our lodge, we celebrate Zambian culinary traditions with a contemporary twist! While our regular menu features a fusion of international flavours, we also take select opportunities to showcase authentic Zambian cuisine. On these special occasions, our award-winning chefs craft dishes inspired by the rich flavours of Royal African dining, bringing traditional ingredients to life in new and exciting ways. Enjoy a starter like our flaky goat’s cheese and caramelised onion tartlet, followed by a main of tender tilapia with delicate beurre blanc sauce atop fresh tagliatelle. Or, if you prefer, indulge in a succulent pepper steak paired with seasonal vegetables. Explore our fantastic cuisine below!
Every meal at Royal Zambezi Lodge celebrates Zambia’s bountiful ingredients. Whether you’re relishing the crunch of a homemade bean burger at lunch or the luxurious layers of vegan banoffee pie – our menu is designed to cater to all palates, creating unforgettable dining experiences. Let us assist you with booking your experience today.
+260 97 0010124
+260 96 674 8249
IN HOUSE
AUSTRALIA
Africa Reps*
+61 (0) 410 22 55 80
[email protected]
http://africareps.com.au.
*contact ONLY for marketing information NOT reservations.
+260 97 0010124
+260 96 674 8249
IN HOUSE
Africa Reps*
+61 (0) 410 22 55 80
[email protected]
http://africareps.com.au.
*contact ONLY for marketing information NOT reservations.
