Ifisashi
Ifisashi is a traditional Zambian dish made primarily with a mix of leafy green vegetables, tomatoes, peanuts, and sometimes meat. This nutritious and flavorful meal can be served as a main course or a side dish, and is often enjoyed with nshima, a maize porridge that is a staple in many African countries. The recipe below provides a vegetarian version of ifisashi, but you can easily add meat or fish if you prefer.
Ingredients
Instructions
In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced tomatoes and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and start to break down.
Add the peanut paste or peanut butter to the saucepan, along with the paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
Gradually add the water, stirring constantly, to create a smooth sauce.
Add the chopped leafy green vegetables to the saucepan. Stir well to ensure they are fully coated with the sauce.
Cover the saucepan and let it simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes, or until the greens are tender and the flavors have melded.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve ifisashi warm.
Notes
You can substitute unsalted peanuts with peanut butter, smooth or chunky depending on your preferences.
Serve the ifisashi alongside nshima or another type of porridge, such as rice, millet, or sorghum. You can also enjoy it with steamed white rice or bread.
For added flavor, consider sautéing some garpc or ginger along with the onions.
You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant, to the dish for more variety.
Variations
If you'd like to include meat or fish, add bite-sized pieces of chicken, beef, or fish when you sauté the onions. Cook until the meat is browned before adding the tomatoes.
You could substitute the peanuts or peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or another nut butter.
Source
Ifisashi is not only enjoyed in Zambia but has also spread to neighboring countries, where it is appreciated for its nutritious and delicious qualities.
Food in Africa