5 Zimbabwean Street Foods and Where to Find Them

Zimbabwe boasts a rich culinary heritage that extends to its vibrant street food culture. From bustling urban centers to quiet rural towns, the country’s street food scene offers a variety of flavors and experiences. Here are five popular Zimbabwean street foods and where to find them:

1. Sadza and Nyama

Sadza, a staple food made from maize meal, is often paired with nyama (meat) and enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. This hearty dish is typically served with greens (relish) and a tomato-based sauce.

Where to Find It:

• Harare: Mbare Musika, a bustling market in the heart of Harare, offers numerous stalls serving fresh sadza and nyama.
• Bulawayo: Look for vendors in the city center, especially near large markets like Renkini Bus Terminus.

2. Maputi

Maputi, Zimbabwean-style popcorn made from roasted maize kernels, is a popular snack enjoyed by people of all ages. It’s crunchy, lightly salted, and perfect for munching on the go.

Where to Find It:

• Harare: Street vendors throughout downtown Harare and at the Harare Agricultural Showgrounds.
• Mutare: Local markets and street corners around the city center.

3. Mabhonzo (Beef Bones)

Mabhonzo, or beef bones, are slow-cooked and marinated in rich, flavorful sauces. This street food is loved for its succulent taste and the communal experience of gnawing on the bones with friends and family.

Where to Find It:

• Chitungwiza: In the high-density suburb of Chitungwiza, vendors often set up stalls near shopping centers and bus stops.
• Gweru: Vendors near Mkoba Shopping Centre frequently sell mabhonzo, attracting large crowds.

4. Chikanda

Chikanda, often referred to as “African polony,” is a traditional delicacy made from wild orchid tubers, ground peanuts, and spices. It has a unique flavor and is a beloved snack in many parts of Zimbabwe.

Where to Find It:

• Harare: Avondale Market and various stalls around Mbare Musika.
• Mutoko: Local markets in Mutoko are well-known for selling freshly prepared chikanda.

5. Mutandavare (Roasted Maize)

Mutandavare, or roasted maize, is a simple yet popular street food enjoyed during maize season. The corn is roasted over an open flame, giving it a smoky flavor that is both sweet and savory.

Where to Find It:

• Harare: Vendors along major roads and near busy bus terminals, such as Fourth Street Bus Terminus.
• Masvingo: Look for roadside stalls along the main highways and near the Great Zimbabwe Monument.

Zimbabwean street food offers a delightful blend of flavors, textures, and cultural experiences. From the hearty sadza and nyama to the crunchy maputi, these foods reflect the country’s rich culinary traditions. Exploring these street foods and their vibrant markets and stalls offers a unique way to experience Zimbabwe’s diverse and dynamic food culture. Whether you’re in the bustling streets of Harare or the serene landscapes of Masvingo, there’s always a delicious street food waiting to be discovered.