Original Story Published by: Staff Writer for CookingLight
Photo Source: Oxmoor House
Explore the best of African cuisine with authentic recipes for classic stews, curries, flatbreads, and more.
The Flavors of Africa
Heavily influenced by imported spices, African recipes are known for their intense flavor. Many seasonings used in traditional African dishes can be made ahead in bulk and enjoyed for months at a time. Find your favorite combination in one of our African-inspired meals and bring the flavors of the region into your own home.
Beginning in the 17th century, slaves from Indonesia and India were brought to work the farms of Cape Town, South Africa, and became known as Cape Malays. As a result of their influence, Malay curry dishes are now enjoyed all over South Africa, combining sweet flavors such as dried fruit, ginger, and cinnamon with garlic and onions.
Pan-Fried Fish Balls
When fish is plentiful in Senegal, cooks often make boulettes de poisson, according to African food historian Jessica B. Harris. The little round fish cakes are usually flavored with garlic, parsley, and chiles browned in a pan and served with spicy tomato sauce. This simplified version spikes up prepared cocktail sauce with chili powder.
Fish in Coconut Curry (Mtuzi wa Samaki)
Tanzania sits at a crossroads in the spice trade routes from India. That's why Indian spices ended up in so many Tanzanian dishes like this fish curry. The dish originated in Zanzibar but is now enjoyed all over the eastern coast of Africa. Coconut milk enriches the curry and gives it a tropical flavor. Serve over boiled yuca, potatoes, or rice.
