Introduction: What is Eswatini cuisine?
Eswatini, commonly known as Swaziland, is located in Southern Africa. Despite the small size of the country, Eswatini boasts a diverse cuisine with flavors that are unique to the Swazi people. The cuisine of Eswatini is influenced by its history, geography, and cultural traditions. Its cuisine is strongly based on fresh produce, with meat playing a significant role in most dishes.
Eswatini’s history and cultural influences on its cuisine
The history of Eswatini is a mix of various cultures, including Zulu, British, and Afrikaans. The cultural influences of these various groups have had a significant impact on the country’s cuisine. Eswatini’s traditional cuisine is based on the foods that were available to its people, such as maize, sorghum, and beans, which are still staples in the Swazi diet. The cuisine of Eswatini also includes dishes that were introduced by the British, such as roast beef and mashed potatoes. Additionally, the country’s proximity to the Indian Ocean has led to the inclusion of seafood in its cuisine.
Staple foods in Eswatini cuisine
Maize is the most important staple food in Eswatini cuisine. It is used to make the traditional porridge, called “pap,” which is served with almost every meal. The porridge is made by boiling maize meal in water until it thickens. Beans and peas are also important staple foods in Eswatini, often served with pap. Sorghum, another type of cereal grain, is used to make beer, called “lukhalo,” which is a popular drink in the country.
Meat dishes in Eswatini cuisine
Meat plays a prominent role in Eswatini cuisine. Beef, chicken, goat, and sheep are the most common types of meat used in the country’s dishes. The meat is usually braaied (barbecued) or boiled and seasoned with spices and herbs. One of the most famous meat dishes in Eswatini is called “emasi emabele,” which is a sour milk dish made from curdled milk and maize meal.
Vegetables and herbs used in Eswatini cuisine
Vegetables are an important part of Eswatini cuisine. Traditional vegetables include pumpkin, sweet potato, spinach, and cabbage. These vegetables are often cooked in various ways, such as boiling, frying, or stewing. Herbs such as coriander, parsley, and ginger are commonly used in Eswatini cuisine to add flavor to dishes.
Popular desserts and snacks in Eswatini
Eswatini has a variety of desserts and snacks to choose from. One of the most popular desserts is called “kukhala,” which is a sweet porridge made from maize meal, sugar, and milk. “Bhaklava,” a pastry made from layers of phyllo pastry filled with nuts and honey, is also a popular dessert. Snacks such as roasted peanuts, dried fruits, and biltong (dried meat) are widely available in Eswatini.
Beverages in Eswatini cuisine
In addition to beer, Eswatini has a variety of non-alcoholic beverages. The most popular is “maheu,” a traditional drink made from fermented maize meal. Another popular drink is “sour milk,” which is often mixed with water and sugar. Fresh fruit juices such as mango and pineapple are also widely available.
Final thoughts on Eswatini cuisine
Eswatini’s cuisine is a reflection of the country’s history, culture, and geography. Its diverse range of dishes incorporates traditional African ingredients and cooking methods, as well as those introduced by European colonizers. Eswatini cuisine is a must-try for anyone who wants to experience the flavors of Southern Africa.
