A foodie’s guide to the must-try local dishes in this breathtaking paradise.
Known as the “Spice Island”, Zanzibar is a paradise not just for beach lovers but also for food enthusiasts. Its unique culinary landscape is shaped by African, Arab, Indian, and European influences, creating a vibrant mix of flavours that define Swahili cuisine.
If you’re planning a visit, here are the must-try local dishes that will take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey.
1. Zanzibar Pizza
Unlike traditional Italian pizza, Zanzibar pizza is a unique street food experience found in the bustling Forodhani Night Market in Stone Town. This vibrant city can be visited from the further high-end resorts available through a variety of comprehensive Zanzibar packages.
It consists of a thin dough filled with a mixture of minced meat, seafood, or vegetables, along with egg, cheese, mayonnaise, and sometimes even banana or Nutella for a sweet version. It is then pan-fried until crispy, resulting in a deliciously crunchy yet gooey treat.
2. Biryani and Pilau
Zanzibar’s version of biryani is a fragrant rice dish infused with local spices, typically served with meat, fish, or chicken. It has a rich, slightly tangy flavour due to the addition of tomatoes and sometimes coconut milk. A refined version can also be found at some of the resorts that can be easily booked on Zanzibar packages.
Pilau, on the other hand, is a spiced rice dish cooked with cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom, often served during special occasions or weddings. Both dishes reflect the Indian and Middle Eastern influences on Zanzibari cuisine.
3. Octopus Curry
A staple of the coastal communities, octopus curry is a must-try seafood dish in Zanzibar. The octopus is slow-cooked in a rich coconut milk sauce with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and Zanzibar’s signature spices, resulting in a creamy, flavourful stew. It’s best enjoyed with rice or chapati.
4. Urojo (Zanzibar Mix)
Urojo, also known as Zanzibar Mix, is a famous street food dish that combines crispy fritters, boiled potatoes, chickpeas, raw mango, and hard-boiled eggs, all drenched in a tangy, spicy yellow soup.
Topped with coconut chutney and kachumbari (a fresh tomato and onion salad), it offers an explosion of flavours in every bite.
5. Mishkaki (Zanzibari Kebabs)
If you’re a fan of grilled meats, Mishkaki is a must-try. These skewers of marinated beef, chicken, or seafood are grilled over an open flame and served with a spicy tomato-based sauce. They make a perfect snack or light meal, often paired with chapati or fries.
6. Mandazi (Swahili Doughnuts)
Mandazi are fluffy, slightly sweet fried dough balls infused with coconut milk and cardamom. They are a popular breakfast or tea-time snack, best enjoyed with spiced tea (chai ya tangawizi).
7. Freshly Grilled Seafood
Given its coastal location, Zanzibar offers an abundance of freshly caught seafood. Whether it’s lobster, prawns, tuna, or snapper, seafood lovers will find an endless variety of grilled delicacies at beachside restaurants and markets.
8. Sugarcane Juice and Spiced Tea
No food tour of Zanzibar is complete without trying sugarcane juice, often pressed fresh with lime and ginger. Spiced tea, brewed with cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom, is another local favourite, offering a warm and aromatic end to your meal.
Final Thoughts
From rich, spicy curries to sweet treats, Zanzibar’s culinary delights are an essential part of the island’s charm. Be sure to explore local markets and seaside eateries to get the full experience of this food lover’s paradise!
