Namibia

Traditional cuisine of Namibia

17 May, 2024

Namibia is a country in Southern Africa known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife and rich cultural heritage. One aspect of Namibian culture that is often overlooked is its traditional cuisine. The dishes and beverages are a reflection of the country’s history, geography and the ethnic groups that call it home.

Stay tuned as the Beloc editors have prepared for you a guide to the Namibian cuisine!

Dishes

Traditional cuisine of Namibia
source: royalenamibian.com

One of the most popular traditional dishes in Namibia is pap, a porridge made from maize meal. Pap is a staple food in many local households and is often served with meat, vegetables or sauce. At markets and street stalls throughout the country you will definitely come across kapana, a type of street food made from grilled meat served with a spicy sauce.

In Namibian cuisine, game meat plays a significant role, due to the country’s abundant wildlife. The use of wild game meat such as kudu, springbok and ostrich in dishes like “bushmeat stew” also reflects the hunting practices of indigenous communities in Namibia. Game meat is prized for its lean nature and high protein content, making it a healthy alternative to more common beef or pork. The meat is often cooked over an open flame, which not only imparts a smoky flavour, but also enhances the natural taste of the game.

Seafood also holds a special place, thanks to the country’s extensive coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. Fresh fish and shellfish are abundant, providing a rich source of protein for the Namibian diet. Oysters, in particular, are highly sought after and are considered a delicacy in the country. The town of Lüderitz is renowned for its oyster farms, where these briny bivalves are cultivated and appreciated by locals and visitors alike.

Enjoying food and life is a true art in which the Africa Brut team are the undoubtful specialists. So if you want to experience the real tapestry of Namibian cuisine – just contact them!

Beverages

Traditional cuisine of Namibia
Marula. source: condimentclaire.substack.com

Especially popular drink in Namibia is marula fruit juice which is made from the sweet and tangy fruit of the marula tree. This refreshing juice is often enjoyed chilled and is a favourite during hot summer days. Another traditional beverage is omagongo, a fermented drink made from the juice of wild, ripe marula fruits. Omagongo has a unique flavour profile and is often consumed during special occasions and festivals.

Namibia also has a growing craft beer scene with several local breweries producing a variety of beers using unique ingredients and flavours influenced by the country’s landscapes and cultures. Some popular items include desert-inspired brews made with ingredients like honeybush, rooibos and indigenous plants. For example, Mahangu beer is a traditional fermented drink made from mahangu (pearl millet) grain, which is a staple crop in Namibia.

For those looking for a non-alcoholic option, rooibos tea is a popular choice in Namibia. It is made from the leaves of the rooibos plant, which is native to Southern Africa. This caffeine-free herbal tea has a mild, slightly sweet flavour and is often enjoyed hot or cold with a touch of honey, milk or lemon.

If you need a caffeine boost, Namibia also offers a unique coffee experience with locally roasted and brewed coffee made from high-quality beans sourced from the country’s own plantations. Namibian coffee is known for its rich and bold flavours, providing a delicious pick-me-up for coffee enthusiasts.

Due to the fact that Namibian cuisine includes a numerous variety of traditional beverages, the Africa Brut team knows for sure which drink is best on which occasion!

Snacks

In addition to the dishes mentioned earlier, Namibian cuisine also features traditional snacks and treats. Biltong, a type of dried and spiced meat similar to beef jerky, is a popular snack in Namibia and is often enjoyed on-the-go or as a protein-rich snack during outdoor activities.

Another traditional snack is vetkoek, deep-fried dough balls that can be filled with savoury or sweet fillings like minced meat, cheese or jam. Vetkoek is a comforting and satisfying treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

For those with a sweet tooth, Namibia offers delicious desserts like koeksisters, which are twisted pastries soaked in syrup, and melktert, a creamy milk tart with a cinnamon topping. These desserts are often served during special occasions and celebrations, adding a touch of sweetness to the traditional cuisine.

Namibia offers culinary experiences that are sure to suit every taste and budget!