A Foodie’s Guide To Rwanda: The Best Local Dishes To Try : When it comes to African cuisine, Rwanda may not be the first country that comes to mind. However, the country boasts a unique culinary scene that combines traditional African dishes with modern influences. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best local dishes to try on your Safari to Rwanda.
- Rwandan Stir Fry (Ibiharage)
Ibiharage is a popular dish in Rwanda made with kidney beans that are cooked with onions, garlic, and tomatoes. The dish is often served with plantains, potatoes, or rice, and can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish. Ibiharage is a hearty and flavorful dish that is a must-try for anyone visiting Rwanda.
- Grilled Meat (Nyama Choma)
Nyama Choma is a popular grilled meat dish that is a staple in Rwandan cuisine. The dish is made with beef, goat, or chicken that is marinated in a blend of spices and grilled to perfection. Nyama Choma is often served with a side of ugali, a type of maize flour porridge that is a staple in East African cuisine.
- Fried Plantains (Matoke)
Matoke is a popular dish in Rwanda made with fried plantains that are mashed and served as a side dish. The dish is often seasoned with spices and herbs, such as garlic and ginger, and can be served with grilled meat or a variety of stews.
- Peanut Sauce (Isombe)
Isombe is a traditional Rwandan dish made with cassava leaves and peanut sauce. The dish is often served with a side of boiled plantains or potatoes and is a staple in Rwandan cuisine. The peanut sauce adds a rich and savory flavor to the dish and makes it a must-try for anyone visiting Rwanda.
- Banana Beer (Urwagwa)
Urwagwa is a traditional Rwandan beer made from bananas. The beer is fermented in large clay pots and is often served in gourds or small calabashes. Urwagwa has a sweet and slightly sour taste and is a popular beverage in Rwanda, especially during traditional ceremonies and events.
- Brochette
Brochette is a popular street food in Rwanda made with skewered meat, often beef or goat, that is grilled and served with a side of tomato and onion salad. The meat is marinated in a blend of spices, including cumin and coriander, that give it a unique flavor. Brochette is a must-try for anyone visiting Rwanda and is often sold at local markets and street vendors, A Foodie’s Guide To Rwanda
- Fried Tilapia
Tilapia is a popular fish in Rwanda that is often served fried and seasoned with spices and herbs such as garlic and ginger. The fish is usually served with a side of vegetables or potatoes and is a delicious and healthy dish that is a must-try for seafood lovers, A Foodie’s Guide To Rwanda
Conclusion
Rwanda’s cuisine may not be as well-known as some other African countries, but it is a unique and flavorful blend of traditional dishes and modern influences. From the hearty Ibiharage to the savory Isombe, and the delicious Nyama Choma, there are plenty of local dishes to try on your trip to Rwanda. Make sure to also try the traditional Urwagwa beer and sample some street food favorites like brochette and fried tilapia. A foodie’s journey to Rwanda will be an unforgettable culinary experience that will leave you wanting more.
