Zambian Nshima

Posted by Gemma Paige Thompson on May 26, 2024 · 1 min read

Zambian Nshima

One of Zambia's staple foods, Nshima is a thick porridge made from maize/cornmeal. It is traditionally eaten with your hands, rolled into small balls and dipped into a delicious accompanying sauce. Nshima is not just a meal in Zambia, but a symbol of pride, heritage, and togetherness.

In Zambia, sharing a pot of Nshima is a gesture of friendship and unity. It's often enjoyed with side dishes like vegetables, meats, or fish stew. The process of cooking Nshima requires patience and skill to achieve the perfect consistency and texture.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups maize meal
  • 8 cups water

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil.
  2. Sprinkle the maize meal into the boiling water while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
  3. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pot.
  4. Cover the pot and let it steam for about 5-10 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly.
  6. Serve the Nshima hot with your favorite side dish.

Enjoy this traditional Zambian dish with friends and family for a truly authentic experience!