Switching Up Dinner Time: 3 Traditional African Dishes That Are Delicious and Nutritious
If you’re exploring any culture new to you, where better to start than with the food? Whether it’s a foreign country or an entirely different culture, food is the common bond that ties us all together.
If you enjoy thinking outside the box when it comes to dinner time and wants to introduce a touch of the exotic mix into your usual lineup, there are plenty of African food that will satisfy your culinary curiosity.
Traditional African dishes are full of bold flavors, unusual textures, and an eye-catching variety that will surprise and delight. Read on to learn more.
Table of Contents
1. South African Chakalaka
Chakalaka is a favorite in South Africa and is made from jalapenos, onions, and carrots cooked in a tomato-based sauce. Other ingredients, such as beans and peppers, can easily be added to make it a more complete meal. Along with its flavors of curry and chili, it is also packed with vitamins and minerals like vitamins A and C, iron, and fiber.
It is traditionally served with pap, a type of South African maize porridge. But it can also be served with other staples such as rice or bread.
South African Chakalaka can be used as a main dish, side dish, or even as a condiment. It’s a great dish that can be easily adapted to any dietary requirement and is both nutritious and tasty.
2. Maafe
Maafe is a spiced stew that is simmered slowly and is incredibly flavorful. The dish is typically made with chicken and has a creamy, nutty taste due to its use of peanut butter. Nutrient-rich vegetables such as onions, carrots, sweet potatoes, and bell peppers are also added for added flavor and nutrition.
The combination of vegetables and creamy peanut butter broth makes this dish a satisfying and tasty meal. It can be served over white rice or couscous to make it even heartier.
Maafe Senegalese Peanut Stew is one of the best African dishes. It is also a great way to switch up dinner time with traditional African food that is both delicious and nutritious.
3. Zaalouk
Made with garlic, olive oil, eggplant, tomatoes, parsley, and a combination of spices, this easy-to-prepare dish is ideal for dinner, as it’s both flavorful and light. The balance of flavors pairs perfectly with fresh pita or warm naan and a side salad or roasted vegetables. Its blend of garlic and spices adds a distinct flavor to the dish and provides a depth of nutrition.
The eggplant is not only an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals but also provides a meaty texture to the dip. Furthermore, the addition of tomatoes and parsley, both high in nutrients, further gives the dip more layers of flavor.
Ultimately, Moroccan eggplant dip is a great addition to any dinner table and is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. What are you waiting for? Visit an African store near me now to get your ingredients.
Try These Traditional African Dishes
African dishes are not only delicious but also nutritious. They provide a wide variety of vitamins, minerals, and fiber that can benefit your daily health.
To give your dinner menu a much-needed update, try traditional African dishes like Jollof Rice, Chakalaka, Chicken Peanut Stew, and Zaalouk. Give them a try and discover the unique, delicious flavors that African cuisine has to offer!
Are you interested in discovering more conventional meals that are nutritious? Browse our site to find more information!
Last Updated on January 17, 2023
