5 Traditional Namibian foods to try in Namibia

Travelling to a new country is exciting for several reasons, not least because one gets to experience an entirely new culinary culture. In this piece, Tolulope Omotunde of Afrik Digest Magazine looks at the delicious delicacies and local foods one must without a doubt try during a visit to Namibia. Take the opportunity to sample as many local food and delicacies in Namibia as possible, ticking them off this list as you go.

1. Biltong

This snack of salted and spiced air-dried beef strips is popular across southern Africa, but in Namibia you’ll find an array of wild game on offer too, from ostrich to kudu.

2.Mopane Worms

Adventurous eaters should try this staple protein from the mopane forests of northern Namibia. These large caterpillars are collected from the trees during the rainy season, then boiled and fried. Often eaten as a daytime snack, or served in a stew.

3. Potjiekos

Often on the menu at a traditional braai (barbecue), this hearty stew is slow-cooked in a cast-iron three-legged pot over the coals. Lamb neck is a popular choice, along with wild game such as springbok.

4.Meat and Pap

Meat and pap is the unofficial national dish of Namibia. It consists of pap, a traditional porridge made from ground maize that’s usually accompanied by meat, but it can also be eaten with cabbage or fish. In the north of the country, however, pap is usually made from pearl millet, called mahangu. When properly prepared, pap should look like a white gloopy mass without any lumps. Due to the fact that many Namibians only eat one meal per day, meat and pap is often served for dinner.

5.Ombidi (Spinach Stew)

Ombidi is a traditional Namibian spinach stew. Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, collard greens, and pumpkin leaves are popular in most African countries. In Namibia, ombidi is made using wild spinach, onions, and tomato. It is usually served along with kapana and pap en wors.