Holiday Ayo - Malawian cuisine has managed to remain relatively traditional. Until the late 19th century, Malawi continued to remain free of gastronomic influences from foreign lands, with the usage of cassava, peanuts, and chili pepper plants being an exception. No doubt, the usage of these ingredients has had a huge influence on the local cuisine, but it certainly has not impacted the preparation methods much.

So without further ado, here are the absolute must-try traditional dishes of Malawi along with recipes for you to try yourself.

1. Nsima

source: Travel Food Atlas

Nsima is a sort of porridge prepared using ground white maize flour. The flour is added in boiling water or milk and is heated until it attains a firm dough-like consistency. It is later formed into patties and then served.

Nsima is a staple food of Malawi’s and is generally served with two side dishes called relishes. The first one consists of a protein source like meat, fish, groundnuts (peanuts), poultry or beans and the other side dish includes vegetables like rape leaves, pumpkin leaves, amaranth leaves, mustard leaves or cabbage.

2. Mkhwani

source: Finmail

Mkhwani is a stew prepared using pumpkin leaves, tomatoes and ground peanut flour. It is often served alongside nsima or rice.

In Malawi, maize and pumpkins contribute to the traditional vegetables that are grown as a method of sustainable agriculture. The locals consider the leaves of pumpkin to be as healthy as the pumpkin itself. They are believed to be rich in vitamin B6, vitamin A, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, thiamine as well as proteins.

3. Thobwa

source: Invented Recipes

Thobwa, also known as sweet beer, is a popular fermented drink which is prepared using white maize and millet or sorghum. The drink has a grainy texture and a thick consistency.

Although Thobwa is actually a non/slightly-alcoholic drink, if left undisturbed for 5-6 days, it tends to turn to mowa or beer. Thobwa can be found all year round but it is most consumed during the hottest months in Malawi (September-November). In the towns and cities Thobwa can be found served out of recycled plastic bottles. In villages, people consume it from clay pots.

4. Mandazi
source: Creating Currents

Mandazi are a kind of local Malawian donut prepared using all-purpose wheat flour, coconut milk, baking powder, egg, peanuts, cardamom, sugar and yeast. The batter is fried in hot oil until the Mandazis turn golden brown. They usually have fluffy texture and are sweet in taste.

5. Mgaiwa Phala or Rice Phala

source: Finmail

Mgaiwa Phala is a breakfast porridge which is prepared using staple maize flour. It is generally consumed with milk and sugar. Usually accompanied by fresh fruit, one can also add a little cinnamon to add extra flavor.

Malawians are believed to keep their breakfasts simple and healthy, making this porridge one of their main go-to’s. It is sometimes also prepared using rice flour instead of the maize flour, which is called Rice Phala.