Harare’s culinary landscape is rich with traditional Zimbabwean dishes that offer an authentic taste of the country’s culture. For food enthusiasts from the UK, the city provides an immersive experience through its diverse food offerings, from popular dishes to street foods and local dining spots. Planning your travel is made simple with Outlook Travel, which offers flights from the UK, so you can focus on exploring Zimbabwe’s vibrant food scene. This guide covers must-try traditional dishes in Harare, along with recommendations on where to find them.
1. Sadza – Zimbabwe’s National Staple
Sadza is the heart of Zimbabwean cuisine and a must-try for visitors. Made from maize flour, this thick porridge-like dish is a staple across the country and is commonly served alongside vegetables, meats, or stews. Sadza’s versatility and hearty nature make it ideal for pairing with various flavours, whether mild or rich in spices.
- Where to Try It: Gava’s Restaurant and Paula’s Place are two popular spots in Harare for authentic sadza paired with traditional sides like Nyama (meat) or leafy greens.
2. Nyama – Traditional Meat Dishes
Nyama, or meat, is a beloved component of Zimbabwean meals, often grilled, stewed, or boiled with spices and served as a main course. Zimbabweans celebrate Nyama at gatherings, where beef, chicken, or goat are prepared with local spices for a flavorful experience.
- Where to Try It: Visit Mokoto Meat Lounge for an excellent selection of Nyama dishes. Their specialty includes Nyama Choma, a popular grilled meat dish seasoned with local herbs and spices.
3. Muriwo Une Dovi – Greens with Peanut Butter Sauce
Muriwo une dovi is a dish featuring leafy greens like collard greens or spinach cooked with a savoury peanut butter sauce. This traditional side is highly nutritious and showcases the Zimbabwean love for peanut-based flavours.
- Where to Try It: For a taste of muriwo une dovi, head to Emmanuel’s Restaurant in Harare, known for its traditional Zimbabwean flavours.
4. Kapenta – Small Dried Fish
Kapenta, tiny freshwater fish typically dried and then fried, is another essential Zimbabwean dish. These small, crunchy fish are often served with sadza, creating a balanced meal with a unique texture and flavour.
- Where to Try It: The Spice Lounge offers a delightful rendition of kapenta with sadza, catering to locals and travellers eager to try Zimbabwean favourites.
5. Mazondo – Hearty Cow Heel Stew
Mazondo, or cow heel stew, is a slow-cooked dish known for its tender and rich flavour. Often prepared during family gatherings, Mazondo is enjoyed with sadza and offers a comforting, savoury taste.
- Where to Try It: Tandoor Zimbabwe is an excellent spot to try Mazondo in Harare, where the dish is seasoned with local spices and slow-cooked for hours to achieve tenderness.
6. Mutakura – A Snack of Corn, Peas, and Peanuts
Mutakura, a simple snack made from corn, peanuts, and peas, is a nutritious treat enjoyed by Zimbabweans as a light meal or snack. It’s a reflection of the country’s agricultural abundance, blending flavours that are both hearty and wholesome.
- Where to Try It: Mutakura is commonly found at local markets like Mbare Market, where vendors sell it alongside other traditional snacks.
7. Maputi – Zimbabwe’s Popcorn
Maputi is a Zimbabwean twist on popcorn made from dried maize kernels. A light, crunchy snack, maputi is enjoyed at gatherings or as a quick snack throughout the day.
- Where to Try It: Mbare Market is a popular spot to find fresh maputi sold by local vendors, along with a variety of other traditional snacks.
8. Mopane Worms – A Unique Street Food
Mopane worms, a staple for the adventurous, are a type of edible caterpillar commonly found in Zimbabwe. Often dried and fried or cooked with spices, mopane worms are rich in protein and have a chewy texture, offering an exotic taste of Zimbabwean street food.
- Where to Try It: Mopane worms are served at The Boma Restaurant in Harare, prepared in traditional Zimbabwean styles for those looking to try something different.
9. Traditional Tea – Experience Zimbabwean Tea Culture
Tea is a daily ritual in Zimbabwe, enjoyed for its calming properties and unique flavours. Many Zimbabweans start their day with a cup of local tea, often paired with light snacks like maputi or mutakura.
- Where to Try It: Chapungu Village provides an authentic Zimbabwean tea experience, where visitors can enjoy traditional teas in a rustic setting.
10. Chikenduza – Zimbabwean Sweet Buns
Chikenduza, Zimbabwe’s version of sweet buns, is a beloved treat in local bakeries. These buns, often topped with pink icing, have a slightly sweet flavour and a fluffy texture, making them a popular snack among locals and visitors alike.
- Where to Try It: Bakers Inn and other local pastry shops across Harare offer fresh Chikenduza, allowing you to indulge in this local favourite.
Conclusion:
Harare’s diverse food scene offers a unique glimpse into Zimbabwean culture, making it a worthwhile experience for first-time visitors from the UK. From hearty traditional dishes to
unique street foods, Harare’s cuisine invites you to immerse yourself in the rich flavours of Zimbabwe. With convenient flight options from Outlook Travel, planning your visit to this vibrant city is simple. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable food journey in Harare.