10+ Best Malawian Recipes You Need To Try Once

Malawi, the “Warm Heart of Africa,” isn’t just known for its stunning landscapes and friendly people—it’s also a hidden gem when it comes to mouthwatering cuisine.

Malawian food is a beautiful blend of simplicity, bold flavors, and hearty ingredients that’ll make your taste buds sing.

If you’re a foodie looking to explore something new, you’re in for a treat.

From savory stews to comforting starches, Malawian recipes are all about bringing people together.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want to spice up your weekly menu, these dishes are guaranteed to hit the spot.

Ready to dive into a culinary adventure? Let’s get started with these 10+ must-try Malawian recipes that’ll have you coming back for seconds.

1. Nsima The Heart of Malawian Cuisine

Nsima is the cornerstone of Malawian meals, and honestly, it’s the ultimate comfort food.

Think of it as a thicker version of polenta or mashed potatoes, but with its own unique twist.

Made from ground maize (cornmeal) and water, this staple is served alongside almost every meal in Malawi.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups white maize flour (cornmeal)
• 4 cups water
• Pinch of salt (optional)

How to Make It:

1. Bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a large pot.
2. In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup of maize flour with 1 cup of cold water to create a smooth paste.
3. Slowly add the paste to the boiling water, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Gradually add the remaining maize flour, stirring vigorously until the mixture thickens.
6. Cook for another 10-15 minutes, then shape into small balls using a wooden spoon or your hands.

Why We Chose It:
Nsima is the ultimate Malawian comfort food. It’s simple, filling, and pairs perfectly with almost any dish. If you’re diving into Malawian cuisine, this is where you start.

2. Chambo Fish A Lake Malawi Delicacy

Chambo fish is a local favorite, straight from the waters of Lake Malawi.

This tilapia-like fish is often grilled or fried and served with a side of nsima and fresh veggies. It’s fresh, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 2 whole Chambo fish (or tilapia), cleaned and scaled
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 lemon, sliced

How to Make It:

1. Season the fish with salt, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Fry the fish for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Serve with lemon slices and a side of nsima.

Why This Made the List:
Chambo fish is a must-try because it’s fresh, healthy, and packed with flavor. It’s a taste of Malawi’s natural bounty.

3. Kachumbari A Fresh and Zesty Salad

Kachumbari is Malawi’s answer to salsa, but with an African twist.

This fresh salad is made with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, and it’s the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats or fish.

Ingredients:

• 2 large tomatoes, diced
• 1 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 bunch cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. Combine tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, and cilantro in a bowl.
2. Drizzle with lime juice and season with salt and pepper.
3. Toss well and refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.

Why We Selected It:
Kachumbari is light, refreshing, and adds a burst of flavor to any meal. It’s the perfect side dish for balancing richer flavors.

4. Ndiwo A Flavorful Vegetable Stew

Ndiwo is a versatile vegetable stew that’s often served with nsima.

It’s made with leafy greens, tomatoes, and onions, and sometimes includes peanuts for extra richness.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups chopped spinach or pumpkin leaves
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 tbsp peanut butter (optional)
• 1 cup water
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. Sauté onions in a pot until translucent.
2. Add tomatoes and cook until softened.
3. Stir in the greens and water, then simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add peanut butter (if using) and season with salt and pepper.

Why This Made the List:
Ndiwo is a hearty, nutritious stew that’s packed with flavor. It’s a great way to enjoy Malawi’s fresh produce.

5. Mandasi Malawi’s Sweet Fried Dough

Mandasi is Malawi’s version of a doughnut, but less sweet and more versatile. These fluffy fried dough balls are perfect for breakfast or as a snack.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• Oil for frying

How to Make It:

1. Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
2. Gradually add milk to form a soft dough.
3. Roll the dough into small balls and flatten slightly.
4. Heat oil in a pan and fry until golden brown on both sides.

Why We Chose It:
Mandasi is simple, delicious, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure.

6. Thobwa A Traditional Fermented Drink

Thobwa is a sweet, fermented drink made from maize and sorghum. It’s refreshing, slightly tangy, and perfect for hot days.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup maize flour
• 1/2 cup sorghum flour
• 4 cups water
• 1/2 cup sugar

How to Make It:

1. Mix maize and sorghum flour with 2 cups of water to form a paste.
2. Boil the remaining water and add the paste, stirring constantly.
3. Simmer for 20 minutes, then cool and strain.
4. Add sugar and let it ferment for 1-2 days before serving.

Why This Made the List:
Thobwa is a unique drink that’s deeply rooted in Malawian culture. It’s a must-try for anyone exploring African beverages.

7. Kondowole A Sticky Cassava Delight

Kondowole is a sticky, stretchy dish made from cassava flour. It’s similar to nsima but has a unique texture that’s fun to eat.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cassava flour
• 4 cups water
• Pinch of salt

How to Make It:

1. Boil water in a pot and add salt.
2. Gradually add cassava flour, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
3. Cook until the mixture becomes thick and stretchy.
4. Serve with your favorite stew or sauce.

Why We Selected It:
Kondowole is a fun, unique dish that showcases Malawi’s love for cassava. It’s a must-try for adventurous eaters.

8. Mtedza Peanut Butter Stew

Mtedza is a rich, creamy stew made with peanut butter, tomatoes, and onions. It’s often served with nsima or rice.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup peanut butter
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 cup water
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. Sauté onions until golden, then add tomatoes.
2. Stir in peanut butter and water, then simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Season with salt and pepper.

Why This Made the List:
Mtedza is creamy, nutty, and full of flavor. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

9. Phala A Warm and Nutritious Porridge

Phala is a hearty porridge made from maize or millet flour. It’s often enjoyed for breakfast and can be sweetened with sugar or honey.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup maize or millet flour
• 4 cups water
• Sugar or honey to taste

How to Make It:

1. Mix flour with 1 cup of water to form a paste.
2. Boil the remaining water and add the paste, stirring constantly.
3. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
4. Sweeten with sugar or honey before serving.

Why We Chose It:
Phala is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for starting your day. It’s simple, nutritious, and delicious.

10. Zitumbuwa Banana Fritters

Zitumbuwa are sweet, crispy fritters made from ripe bananas and flour. They’re a popular snack or dessert in Malawi.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 cup flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• Oil for frying

How to Make It:

1. Mix mashed bananas, flour, sugar, and baking powder in a bowl.
2. Heat oil in a pan and drop spoonfuls of the batter into the oil.
3. Fry until golden brown on both sides.

Why This Made the List:
Zitumbuwa are sweet, crispy, and utterly addictive. They’re the perfect treat for banana lovers.

11. Mkhwani Pumpkin Leaf Stew

Mkhwani is a flavorful stew made with pumpkin leaves, tomatoes, and onions. It’s a great way to enjoy Malawi’s fresh greens.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups chopped pumpkin leaves
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 cup water
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. Sauté onions until golden, then add tomatoes.
2. Stir in pumpkin leaves and water, then simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Season with salt and pepper.

Why We Selected It:
Mkhwani is a simple, nutritious dish that’s packed with flavor. It’s a great way to enjoy Malawi’s fresh produce.

Conclusion

Malawian cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors, textures, and traditions just waiting to be explored.

From the comforting nsima to the crispy zitumbuwa, each dish tells a story of Malawi’s rich culture and love for food.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, pick a recipe, and start cooking your way through these 10+ must-try Malawian dishes.