The
cuisine of Mozambique revolves around fresh seafood, stews, corn porridge
(maize meal), arroz (rice), millet (a type of grain), and mandioca (cassava).
Meats such as bifel (steak) and frango (chicken) are often accompanied by
beans, cassava chips, cashew nuts, coconut, batata (potatoes), and a variety of
spices, including garlic and peppers (a Portuguese influence). Seasonal fruta
(fresh fruit; Mozambique's papaya and pineapples are known as some of the
juiciest in the world), puddings made of fruits and rice, and fried balls of
flour paste (similar to doughnuts), most often accompanied by Mozambican chá
(tea), make a delicious ending to any meal.
In
the mornings for pequeno almoço (breakfast), tea and coffee are commonly sold
with sandwiches made of ovos (egg) or fresh peixe (fish), or a slightly
sweetened bread-cake. The pequeno almoço is usually light, however, as the main
meal of the day is normally almoço (lunch) at midday.
Those
who work in cities and towns often purchase almoço from food stalls (also
called tea stalls), which are located on roadsides, bus stations, and markets
around town. Pregos (steak sandwiches), burgers, fried chicken, meat stews, and
rice are typical fare available from the stalls. Fresh seafood from off the
coast of Mozambique is abundant and is considered some of the most delicious
food available. It is sold nearly everywhere from street stalls to city
restaurants, though it is more available near the coast. Fresh fish, prawns
(similar to shrimp), calamari (squid), crab, lobster, and crayfish are often
served with arroz (rice) or batata fritas (fries, known as chips). Matata , a
seafood and peanut stew, is a typical local dish. Rice topped with sauce, spicy
stew, fresh fruit (such as pineapples sprinkled with sugar and cashew nuts),
and posho (maize porridge) are common lunches for children. Toasted cheese
sandwiches (sandes de queijo ), commonly sold at stalls, and chips (fries) are
other favorites.
Aside
from the widely served coffee and tea, adults may enjoy locally brewed beer
made from maize, a Mozambican staple food. The thick and sweet drink is often
drunk from a common pot and shared by everyone present on special occasions.
Madeira, a Portuguese wine that is popular in Mozambique, was extremely popular
in America during the colonial era—it was a favorite of George Washington and
was used to toast the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
Children
often prefer such beverages as carbonated soft drinks and fresh fruit juices,
which are sometimes imported from the country of South Africa.
