Zimbabwe • Africa • easy • 40 mins
Zimbabwe Matemba
Description
Matemba, also known as kapenta, are small dried fish that are a staple in Zimbabwean cuisine. They are often enjoyed for their rich flavor and nutritional value, serving as an important source of protein in many households.
Ingredients
- 500g dried matemba (small fish)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the dried matemba under cold water to remove excess salt and impurities. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until they are translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and green bell pepper, cooking until the tomatoes soften.
- Sprinkle in the paprika, salt, and black pepper, stirring well to combine.
- Gently fold in the rinsed matemba, ensuring they are coated with the mixture.
- Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once cooked, garnish with fresh coriander before serving.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 250 per serving
Servings: 4
Dietary: dairy-free, gluten-free
⚠️ Allergens: fish
Health Benefits
Matemba is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health and reduce inflammation. The inclusion of vegetables like tomatoes and green bell peppers provides essential vitamins A and C, supporting immune function and skin health. This dish is also dairy-free and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs while being a staple of Zimbabwean cuisine that showcases the benefits of local, nutrient-dense ingredients.
Cultural Significance
Matemba is a traditional dish that reflects the resourcefulness of Zimbabwean cuisine, utilizing small fish that are abundant in local waters. It is often enjoyed with sadza (a maize porridge), making it a beloved comfort food.
Explore More Recipes
🌍 More Zimbabwe Recipes – Discover authentic dishes from Zimbabwe
🗺️ More Africa Cuisine – Explore recipes from across Africa
🥗 More dairy-free Recipes – Browse our dairy-free collection
👨🍳 Similar Difficulty Recipes – Find more easy recipes
🔍 Browse All Recipes – Search our complete collection of 1,000+ African and Caribbean recipes