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Local food map
Lusaka (Zambia)
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Snack
Vegan
Food Flavour DNA
Nutritional Values
300kcal
12gProtein
35gCarbs
15gFat
5gFibre
250 gServing
* Per serving · 250 g. May vary.
Allergens
🥜 Nuts
Chikanda
How to order / say it
Say it
Chikanda — [chee-kan-dah]
Order
I'd like to try Chikanda, please.
Locally
Ndisunga chikanda kuti, chonde.
Say locally
Chikanda is a traditional Zambian dish made from orchid tubers and ground peanuts.
Why try it?
Chikanda, often referred to as the 'African polony', is a unique dish that represents the resourcefulness and agricultural traditions of Lusaka's people. Trying it gives you a taste of local ingenuity and sustainable practices.
How it tastes
Chikanda has a savory and nutty flavor, with a firm texture similar to that of a dense cake. It's typically served sliced as a snack or accompaniment.
Origin & History — first documented: 1950
Chikanda originated in the northern regions of Zambia and became popular in Lusaka in the 20th century as migration brought diverse culinary practices to the city. It became a staple due to its economic use of locally available tubers and peanuts.
Recipe
Ingredients
- 🥕 200 g ground tubers
- 🥜 100 g ground peanuts
- 🧄 1 medium onion
- 🧂 1 tsp salt
- 🧂 1 tsp baking soda
- 150 ml water
Method
- 1 Mix ground tubers and peanuts.
- 2 Add onions, salt, and baking soda.
- 3 Slowly add water and mix into a dough.
- 4 Steam until firm, about 30 minutes.
- 5 Allow to cool, then slice and serve.
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© Wikimedia Commons
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