Matapa – A Traditional Cassava Leaf Stew:
Matapa is a beloved Mozambican dish made from cassava leaves cooked with ground peanuts, coconut milk, and various spices. The stew is often enriched with fish or shrimp, creating a hearty and flavorful dish that is served with rice or xima (corn porridge).
Piri-Piri Chicken – Flavorful Grilled Chicken:
Piri-piri chicken is another popular dish in Mozambique, influenced by the country’s Portuguese heritage. The chicken is marinated in a zesty piri-piri sauce before being grilled or roasted, resulting in a succulent and flavorful dish that is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Xima (Sadza) – Mozambican Corn Porridge:
Xima, also known as sadza in other African countries, is a staple food in Mozambique. This thick corn porridge is made from maize flour cooked with water until it reaches a smooth and thick consistency. Xima is often served as an accompaniment to various stews and sauces.
Chouriço – Portuguese Influenced Sausage:
Chouriço is a Portuguese-influenced sausage that is popular in Mozambican cuisine. Made from pork and seasoned with garlic, paprika, and other spices, chouriço is often grilled or fried and enjoyed as a flavorful appetizer or added to stews for extra depth of flavor.
Chamussas (Samosas) – Savory Pastries:
Chamussas, similar to Indian samosas, are popular savory pastries in Mozambique. These deep-fried delights are filled with a savory mixture of meat, vegetables, and spices, making them a delightful street food snack and appetizer.
Caju – Cashew Fruit Delicacy:
Caju, or cashew fruit, is a tropical delicacy widely enjoyed in Mozambique. The fruit is sweet and juicy, and the cashew nut is attached to its bottom. In Mozambique, the fruit is often enjoyed fresh or used to make refreshing juices and alcoholic beverages.
