Top 7 Most Popular Zambian Street Food

Zambia is a country in Southern Africa known for its rich culture, vibrant music, and delicious cuisine. Zambian street food is no exception, as it is a unique blend of traditional and modern flavors that tantalize the taste buds. There are many types of Zambian street food but in this article, we will explore only 7 popular Zambian street foods that are a must-try for any food lover.

Street Meat (Michopo)

Zambian street food on an open flame cooking. Michopo
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Street meat  also known as Michopo is a popular Zambian street food that can be found in almost every major town. It is usually made from beef, chicken, or goat meat that is grilled over an open flame.

The meat is often seasoned with a blend of spices that give it a distinctive flavor. It is served hot off the grill with a side of potato fries or a cabbage salad. It is popular in very busy markets and bus terminals.

Groundnuts (Boiled and Roasted)

roasted groundnuts
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Groundnuts, also known as peanuts, are a  popular Zambian street food snack. They are a great source of protein and are often boiled or roasted before being sold on the streets. Boiled groundnuts are usually served warm and seasoned with salt while roasted groundnuts are crunchy and flavorful, with a taste that is hard to resist.

Groundnuts are a healthy and filling snack that is perfect for those who need an energy boost on the go.

Popcorn

Popcorn being scooped
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Popcorn is a popular snack in Zambia that can be found on almost every street corner. It is usually sold in small plastic bags and seasoned with salt or spices such as vinegar spice. Popcorn is a great option for anyone looking for a quick and affordable snack.

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It is also a healthy alternative to other snacks that are high in calories and fat.

Maize (Boiled and Roasted)

roasted maize
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Maize, also known as corn, is a staple food in Zambia. It is often boiled or roasted and sold on the streets as a snack. Boiled maize is usually served with some salt. Roasted maize is crunchy and flavorful, with a smoky taste from the charcoal brazier it is roasted on.

Boiled maize is often sold in big metal pots known as “shomekas”.

Vitumbuwa/ Fritters

Vitumbuwa fritters, zambian snacks
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Vitumbuwa, also known as fritters, are a popular Zambian street food that is usually sold in the morning. They are made from a mixture of flour, sugar, and water that is deep-fried until golden brown.

Vitumbuwa are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a sweet taste that is perfect for breakfast. Another similar type of puff pastry also known as “condos” are also sold as Zambian street food.

They are often served with tea or coffee and are a great way to start the day.

Cassava (Boiled and Roasted)

Boiled cassava and groundnuts
Photo by Kadek Bonit Permadi via Getty Images Signature

Cassava is a root vegetable that is popular in Zambia. It is often roasted over an open flame and sold on the streets as a snack. Sometimes, it is deep fried in hot cooking oil.

Fried cassava is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It is a filling and nutritious snack that is perfect for anyone who needs a quick energy boost.

Chikanda

Chikanda Zambian street food

Chikanda, also known as African polony, is a popular Zambian street food that is made from ground peanuts, Chikanda powder, soda and salt.

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It is usually sold as slices like that of polony but similar like cubes to the customer . It has a meaty flavor that is hard to resist. it is usually served with chilli.

Zambian street food is a unique blend of traditional and modern flavors that is a must-try for any food lover. From street meat to chikanda, these seven popular Zambian will surely tantalize tour taste buds.