A GUIDE TO AFRICA
FIVE BOTSWANA FOODS TO EAT
We already covered traditional South African food in arguably too much detail – from Traditional South African foods and food tours to the best places to eat. It’s clear that we have a bit of a passion for food. But this doesn’t end in South Africa, Africa’s fantastic cultural diversity means a fantastic culinary diversity, especially when it comes to Botswana food.
So, our food journey continues onwards to Botswana. Botswana promises an incredible safari experience with the spectacular Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park’s abundance of wildlife. However, this experience is all enriched by unique and delicious traditional Botswana foods. Here are 5 foods to eat in Botswana:
1. Seswaa
Seswaa is the national dish of Botswana. This meat dish is made from beef, goat, lamb or chicken and boiled with onion and pepper until soft and tender. Like every good stew in southern Africa, it is cooked low and slow in a three-legged cast iron pot. Once the meat is soft, it is pounded or shredded and served on a bed of a pap.
2. Morogo
Morogo is the ideal option for less adventurous eaters. It is nutrient-dense wild spinach; and is often served as a side dish to seswaa.
3. Matemekwane
Matemekwane is one of Botswana’s most popular bread dishes. Although Botswana doesn’t actually produce its own bread flavour, these little dumplings have become a part of the country’s staple diet. Matemekwane is a seasoned dumpling often stuffed with meat and vegetables. They are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside and are usually served with hot soup or a dip.
4. Dikgobe
For any vegetarians, this is a great option for tickling your taste buds. Dikgobe combines peas and beans with sorghum, maize meal or samp to create a savoury porridge. It can be served as a main meal or a side dish. It can be purchased at local markets or stores that specialize in traditional Botswana cuisine.
5. Mopane Worms
This is definitely for the adventurous eaters and the ideal way to really immerse yourself into Botswana’s cultural culinary scene. Mopane worms are a local delicacy. They are beautiful caterpillars that are usually served in a tomato stew or peanut sauce. If you’re on a health kick, these are a great option as they’re rich in both protein and calcium. Don’t bash it until you try it, but there’s no harm in sticking to the seswaa and morogo!
