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Lusaka (Zambia)
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Drink
Vegan
Food Flavour DNA
Nutritional Values
100kcal
1gProtein
24gCarbs
—Fat
—Fibre
250 mlServing
* Per serving · 250 ml. May vary.
Munkoyo
How to order / say it
Say it
Munkoyo — [mun-ko-yoh]
Order
Could I have a glass of Munkoyo?
Locally
Ndafuna inkobe munkoyo.
Say locally
Munkoyo is a traditional, lightly fermented beverage made from maize meal.
Why try it?
This locally brewed drink is a refreshing staple during Lusaka's hot months, embodying the city's deep roots in maize cultivation and traditional brewing methods. Sampling Munkoyo provides insight into rural influences on urban cuisine.
How it tastes
Munkoyo is faintly sweet with a mild tanginess and a slightly grainy mouthfeel. It's often served chilled, offering a cooling effect perfect for warm days.
Origin & History — first documented: 1942
Munkoyo has been cherished in rural Zambia for centuries, but its entrance into Lusaka's culinary scene came as more people migrated to the city. Its production is a family tradition, passed down through generations as urban families retain cultural ties to rural lifestyles.
Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 liter water
- 🌾 100 g maize meal
- 🌿 1 piece munkoyo root
- 🍯 50 g sugar
Method
- 1 Boil water and add maize meal.
- 2 Stir until thick paste forms, then let cool.
- 3 Add munkoyo root and leave to ferment for 24 hours.
- 4 Strain and add sugar to taste.
- 5 Chill and serve.
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