Zanzibar is a true melting pot of flavors, thanks to its rich history and cultural influences from Africa, the Middle East, India, and Europe. The island’s food scene is as vibrant and diverse as its landscape, offering travelers a tantalizing mix of spices, fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or someone eager to try something new, Zanzibar’s cuisine is sure to delight your senses. Here’s a guide to the must-try dishes in Zanzibar, so you can savor the island’s authentic flavors during your visit.
1. Zanzibar Pizza: A Unique Fusion Snack
Zanzibar Pizza is a popular street food that combines the best of both savory and sweet flavors. Despite its name, it’s not your typical pizza—this dish is more like a stuffed flatbread, filled with a variety of delicious ingredients.
- What’s Inside:
- Thin dough is filled with a mix of minced meat, chicken, or vegetables, along with cheese, egg, and spices.
- It’s cooked on a hot griddle, resulting in a crispy exterior and a gooey, flavorful filling.
- Some variations feature sweet fillings like banana, chocolate, or coconut for a dessert-style treat.
- Where to Try It:
- You’ll find Zanzibar pizza in Stone Town, especially at local street food stalls and night markets, where it’s a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
2. Swahili Biryani: A Spiced Rice Delight
Biryani is a popular dish across the Swahili Coast, and Zanzibar’s version is a must-try for anyone who loves rich, aromatic rice dishes. It’s a flavorful mix of spices, tender meat, and basmati rice, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.
- What’s Inside:
- The rice is cooked with a blend of aromatic spices such as cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and cumin, infused with saffron to give it a golden hue.
- It’s typically served with chicken, goat, or fish, and garnished with fried onions and boiled eggs.
- The dish has roots in Indian cuisine but has been adapted with local spices and cooking techniques, creating a unique Zanzibar flavor.
- Where to Try It:
- Enjoy Zanzibar biryani at local restaurants like Tamarind Restaurant in Stone Town or Zanzibar Coffee House for an authentic, flavorful experience.
3. Urojo (Zanzibar Soup): A Hearty, Spicy Bowl
Also known as Zanzibar Mix, Urojo is a popular and flavorful soup that combines a variety of textures and tastes, making it a true reflection of the island’s culinary diversity. This hearty dish is perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors.
- What’s Inside:
- Urojo is a thick, spiced soup made from tamarind, tomato, and coconut milk, often served with a combination of crispy fried potatoes, dough balls (called bhajias), and vegetables.
- The soup is served with meat (like goat or chicken) or fish, and it has a mildly spicy, tangy taste that will leave you craving more.
- It’s a popular dish for breakfast or as a late-night snack.
- Where to Try It:
- Head to Forodhani Gardens in Stone Town for a chance to sample Urojo from the various street vendors who specialize in this unique dish.
4. Grilled Seafood: Fresh from the Ocean
Zanzibar, an island surrounded by the Indian Ocean, is known for its fresh and abundant seafood. Whether you love fish, lobster, or prawns, Zanzibar offers some of the best grilled seafood you’ll ever taste.
- What’s Inside:
- Grilled octopus, lobster, prawns, and fish are seasoned with local spices and grilled to perfection, often served with a side of saffron rice or vegetables.
- The seafood is typically caught fresh that day and prepared right before your eyes, ensuring maximum flavor.
- Where to Try It:
- Visit The Rock Restaurant on the southern coast for a unique seafood dining experience, or check out local stalls in Forodhani Gardens for a more casual seafood feast.
5. Pweza (Octopus Curry): A Zanzibar Delicacy
Zanzibar’s waters are home to some of the freshest seafood, and Pweza (octopus) is one of the most flavorful dishes you’ll find on the island. Often served as a curry, this dish highlights the island’s use of spices and fresh local ingredients.
- What’s Inside:
- Octopus is cooked in a rich, creamy coconut curry sauce with garlic, ginger, tomatoes, and a blend of spices like turmeric and cumin.
- The tender octopus pairs wonderfully with rice or ugali (a staple maize-based dish) to soak up the flavorful curry.
- Where to Try It:
- Pweza is commonly found at restaurants like The Waterfront and House of Spices, where you can savor the dish in an authentic Zanzibar setting.
6. Samosa: A Snack with Spices
A popular snack throughout Zanzibar and the Swahili Coast, samosas are deep-fried pastries filled with a variety of ingredients. These bite-sized treats are ideal for those on the go or as a part of a larger meal.
- What’s Inside:
- The traditional filling includes spiced potatoes, peas, and meat (often beef or chicken), all wrapped in thin pastry dough and deep-fried until golden and crispy.
- Zanzibar’s samosas are distinctively spiced with coriander, turmeric, and chili, making them a flavorful and satisfying snack.
- Where to Try It:
- You’ll find samosas at almost every street food stall and local café, with vendors in Stone Town offering freshly made samosas throughout the day.
7. Mandazi: A Sweet Zanzibar Treat
For a sweet snack or dessert, try Mandazi, a fried dough pastry that is a popular treat throughout Zanzibar. These little doughnuts are light, fluffy, and slightly sweet, making them the perfect pick-me-up.
- What’s Inside:
- Mandazi dough is typically flavored with a hint of cardamom and coconut, then deep-fried until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- It’s often enjoyed with a cup of chai (spiced tea) for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.
- Where to Try It:
- Mandazi is widely available at local markets, cafés, and street food stalls across Zanzibar, including at the Forodhani Gardens and Stone Town cafes.
8. Coconut Rice: A Flavorful Side Dish
Coconut rice is a staple in Zanzibar’s culinary scene, offering a rich, creamy base to complement the island’s many spicy dishes. It’s a simple yet delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with seafood, curries, and grilled meats.
- What’s Inside:
- Basmati rice is cooked with coconut milk and spices, giving it a soft and aromatic flavor that enhances the main course.
- The rice often has a subtle sweetness and a slight richness, which balances out the spice in the dishes it’s served with.
- Where to Try It:
- Coconut rice is served at many local restaurants and hotels, and it’s a must-try alongside seafood or curries. Try it at places like Zanzibar Coffee House for an authentic experience.
Why Book Your Zanzibar Food Tour with Future African Safari?
At Future African Safari, we believe that one of the best ways to experience Zanzibar is through its food. Our customized food tours give you the opportunity to taste the authentic flavors of the island, from street food to fine dining. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, we’ll help you explore the culinary treasures of Zanzibar in style.
- Expert Guides: Our knowledgeable guides will take you to the best local spots for an unforgettable culinary adventure.
- Tailored Tours: We offer private food tours that can be customized to your tastes, whether you’re looking to dive deep into Zanzibar’s traditional dishes or explore its fusion cuisine.
- Cultural Immersion: Learn about the history and cultural influences behind Zanzibar’s diverse cuisine while enjoying delicious dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
Ready to Taste Zanzibar’s Best Dishes?
Contact Future African Safari today to book your food tour in Zanzibar. From savory curries to sweet treats, let us guide you through the island’s most mouth-watering culinary experiences.
Indulge in the flavors of Zanzibar—your culinary adventure awaits.