Food

The Top Traditional Zanzibar food That You Must Try

March 02, 2023

Are you planning to spend your vacation at a beach holiday destination with lots of great food? Pack your bags, and Zanzibar is your dream destination! Let’s discuss Top Traditional Zanzibar food That You Must Try

Zanzibar is an archipelago off the coast of Tanzania and is world-renowned for its beautiful beaches, clear turquoise waters, and friendly people. You can enjoy a wide range of activities, from exploring the bustling streets of Stone Town to relaxing on the beach or snorkeling on the reefs. There is also a rich cultural heritage to explore, with several historical sites and museums. If you are looking for a real adventure and tasty food to try, Zanzibar is the perfect place to go.

Known as the “Spice Island”, Zanzibari cuisine has influences from India, Persia, Oman, and East Africa. With its warm climate and rich soil, Zanzibar is a paradise for growers of spices, fruits, and vegetables. Fresh seafood is readily available in Zanzibar, thanks to the island’s location in the Indian Ocean. Consequently, Zanzibari cuisine is noted for its freshness, intense flavors, and various dishes. In this blog, you will read about the top traditional foods in Zanzibar that you must try!

Traditional Dishes to Try in Zanzibar

As mentioned above, Zanzibar is a food lover’s paradise. The island’s cuisine is a unique fusion of African, Indian, and Arab influences, and there are plenty of delicious dishes to choose from. Here are the most famous dishes from Zanzibar that you must try:

1. Urojo Soup (Zanzibar Mix):

One of the most popular dishes on the island that you must try is Urojo soup, a hearty mix of vegetables and proteins in a coconut-based broth. The soup typically includes chicken or goat, as well as a variety of vegetables such as okra, tomatoes, and peas. Garbanzo beans are frequently used to add protein and creaminess.

Urojo soup is typically served with chapati, a type of flatbread that is popular in many East African countries. Combining the savory soup and the fluffy bread makes for a satisfying and filling meal. If you want to experience the rich culture and cuisine of Zanzibar, Urojo soup is a must-try dish.

2. Octopus Soup:

Are you a fan of seafood? If yes, don’t forget to try the Octopus Soup. The soup is made with octopus, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and chili peppers and is often served with rice or bread. Octopus soup is popular street food in Zanzibar, and you can see the dish served by street vendors.

The soup is also a popular dish for special occasions such as weddings and birthdays in Zanzibar. Octopus soup is generally considered to be a healthy dish, as it is high in protein and low in fat. The soup can also source vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and iron.

3. Zanzibar Pizza:

If you’re in the mood for something sweet, try Zanzibar Pizza. This dish is a popular dessert pizza that originates from the island of Zanzibar. The pizza dough is made with yeast and coconut milk, and it’s topped with a variety of sweet toppings like bananas, pineapples, and mangoes. If you’re feeling adventurous, add some chocolate chips or nuts. The pizza is then baked in a wood-fired oven, giving it a unique flavor you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a more substantial dessert, Zanzibar Pizza will hit the spot.

4. Pilau:

Another major dish that you must try is Pilau. Pilau is a popular dish from the East African island of Zanzibar. The dish is made by cooking rice in a broth of spices and meat, often chicken or beef. Pilau is usually served with a side of vegetables, such as peas or carrots. The dish is believed to have originated in India, but it has been adapted to suit the local palate.

Pilau is also often served on special occasions, such as weddings or festivals. It is also popular street food, sold by vendors who simmer the rice over open fires. Regardless of where it is eaten, pilau is sure to tantalize your taste buds and will leave you wanting more.

5. Calamari Rings:

Did you know that Calamari rings are a popular seafood dish in many parts of the world, but they’re especially associated with Zanzibar? The Calamari rings dish is made by coating squid rings in a batter made from flour, eggs, and seasonings, then deep-frying them until their crispy and golden brown. You can have Calamari rings as an appetizer or a main course with dipping sauces such as tomato or tartar sauce.

6. Chips Mayai:

Chips Mayai consist of fried potatoes, eggs, and vegetables, all wrapped in soft chapati. The dish is often served with ketchup or chili sauce, and you can find it in roadside cafes and markets. Chips Mayai is a simple but filling meal, and it is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. So you can try out Mayai chips, a very delicious dish.

While the exact origins of the dish are unknown, it is thought to have originated with Indian traders who introduced chapatis to the island. Over time, the dish has been adopted as a local favorite, and it has become one of the quintessential foods of Zanzibar.

7. Kalimati:

If you love sweets and wish to have a sweet treat, try Kalimati. They are small, round balls of fried dough coated in syrup made from sugar and spices. Originally from Zanzibar, these little snacks have become popular in other parts of East Africa as well.

The Kalimati dough is made from a simple mixture of flour, water, and yeast, and the balls are fried in hot oil until they are golden brown. The syrup is made by boiling sugar and water together with cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. Once the kalimati are coated in the syrup, they are rolled in chopped nuts or coconut flakes. These delicious little balls are the perfect bite-sized treat you will love!

8. Coconut Bean Soup:

Did you know that the island’s cuisine also features a wide variety of soups and stews, many of which are made with coconut milk? One of the most popular of these is coconut bean soup, which is often served as a dessert. The soup is made by simmering beans in coconut milk until they are soft, then adding sugar and spices to taste. The result is a rich, creamy soup that is both sweet and savory.

Coconut bean soup is a popular choice for those with a sweet tooth, which is sure to tantalize your taste buds. So if you’re looking for something different to try while on vacation in Zanzibar, give this unique dish a try.

9. Mishkaki:

This dish is made with skewered pieces of meat grilled over an open flame. The meat is usually chicken or goat, but fish and beef are also sometimes used. You can have Mishkaki with a dipping sauce, such as tamarind or peanut butter.

The Mishkaki dish is believed to have originated in Persia, and it was brought to Zanzibar by Indian traders. Today, it is one of the most popular dishes on the island, and you can find it in restaurants and street stalls throughout Zanzibar. Be sure to try some Mishkaki – it’s a taste of paradise.

10. Mandazi:

It is a type of East African bread, traditionally made in a triangle shape. It is soft and fluffy, with a slightly sweet flavor. You can enjoy a Zanzibar morning with Mandazi for breakfast with some hot tea or coffee. In Zanzibar, it is common to find vendors selling them from baskets on the street.

Mandazi can also be served as a snack or dessert, often accompanied by fresh fruits or jams. You can also try Mandazi made with yeast or egg. However, the traditional recipe uses only flour, sugar, baking powder, and milk. Whether you enjoy them plain or topped with your favorite toppings, Mandazi is a delicious and quintessential part of Zanzibar cuisine.

Conclusion

When it comes to food, Zanzibar is a paradise for seafood lovers. The island’s rich waters teem with fish, crabs, and lobsters, and there’s no shortage of places to enjoy a fresh catch. Also, no meal would be complete without a cup of chai tea made with milk, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon. With its stunning beaches, fascinating history, and delicious food, it’s no wonder that Zanzibar is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations that you must visit!