Introduction: Eswatini’s Street Food Scene
Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is a small landlocked country in Southern Africa. The country is known for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and friendly people. Eswatini is also home to a unique street food scene that offers visitors a chance to experience the local flavors and culinary traditions of the country.
Traditional Flavors: Swazi Sausage (Lobombo)
Lobombo is a traditional Swazi sausage that is made from beef or pork, mixed with spices, and smoked to perfection. The sausage is usually served with a side of pap, a type of porridge made from maize meal. Lobombo is a favorite among locals and is often seen at street food markets and festivals. The sausage has a smoky and spicy flavor that is sure to leave you wanting more.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth: Sishwala
Sishwala is a traditional Swazi dessert made from ground nuts and sugar. The dessert has a creamy, peanut butter-like consistency and is often served with a side of bread. Sishwala is a popular street food among locals and is a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth after a savory meal.
A Taste of the Wild: Mopane Worms (Emasi)
Mopane worms, also known as emasi, are a delicacy in Eswatini. The worms are harvested from mopane trees and are sun-dried before being sold as street food. Mopane worms are usually cooked with onions, tomatoes, and chili peppers and have a meaty flavor that is similar to chicken or beef.
For the Adventurous: Goat Head Stew (Skoftin)
Skoftin is a traditional Swazi dish that is made from the head of a goat. The head is boiled for several hours until the meat is tender, and then the meat is removed from the head and cooked in a stew with vegetables, chili peppers, and spices. Skoftin is a popular street food among locals, and although it may sound intimidating to some, it is definitely worth a try.
Local Favorite: Kapenta (Tiny Fish) with Pap
Kapenta is a type of tiny fish that is found in Lake Kariba, which is located on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. The fish is usually deep-fried and served with pap, a type of porridge made from maize meal. Kapenta is a popular street food among locals and is a great way to taste the flavors of Lake Kariba.
Spice up Your Day: Chillies (Seswaa)
Seswaa is a type of chili pepper that is grown in Eswatini. The peppers are usually dried and ground into a powder, which is then used to spice up dishes and add flavor to stews and soups. Seswaa is a staple in Swazi cuisine and is a must-try for anyone who loves spicy food.
Sip on Some Local Brews: Sibebe and Ingwebu Beer
Sibebe and Ingwebu are two popular beers in Eswatini. Sibebe is a lager that is brewed in the country, while Ingwebu is a type of sorghum beer that is made from fermented grains. Both of these beers can be found at local bars and street food markets and are a great way to sample the local brews.
