A Guide to Food in Mozambique: Seafood, Spices, and Portuguese Influences

Shaped by centuries of trade routes, colonial influence and an extraordinary coastline, Mozambican cuisine is unlike anything else on the African continent. Here are some dishes worth trying.

Portuguese Legacy

The piri piri chilli sauce, originally brought by Portuguese settlers and developed over generations with local spices, coats flame-grilled prawns in a way that carries flavour and heat. Guests staying at Anantara Bazaruto Resort can enjoy fresh seafood from the comfort of their resort or make the short boat transfer to Vilanculos Harbour on the mainland for some freshly grilled prawns.

Unique Dishes

While restaurants in Mozambique still carry the Portuguese influence, some flavours and dishes are truly Mozambican. To enjoy something unique, consider trying Matapa, a rich stew of cassava leaves slow-cooked in coconut milk and peanuts, often served with crab or shrimp.

Seafood

Freshly caught kingfish grilled whole over coconut husks with lime and salt is a simple yet delicious dish. Alongside nearly every fish dish, coconut rice is served, which is said to help absorb the flavours of the seafood.

Cashews

Cashews are a key ingredient in Mozambican cooking, used in both sweet and savoury dishes. Visitors with a sweet tooth can try Bolo Polana, a cake-like dessert made with cashew nuts and mashed potatoes.