Chikanda Ya Nsima (chibwantu-stuffed Bell Peppers)

Chikanda Ya Nsima (Chibwantu-stuffed Bell Peppers) is a traditional Zambian dish that combines the flavors of chikanda (African wild orchid tubers) and nsima (maize porridge) stuffed inside bell peppers. This unique and flavorful dish is a staple in Zambian cuisine and is perfect for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Chikanda Ya Nsima (chibwantu-stuffed Bell Peppers)

Ingredients

  • 4 large bell peppers
  • 1 cup chikanda (African wild orchid tubers), grated
  • 2 cups nsima (maize porridge)
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons cooking oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
  3. In a large bowl, mix together the grated chikanda, nsima, chopped onion, diced tomatoes, cilantro, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Stuff the bell peppers with the chikanda and nsima mixture, and place them in a baking dish.
  5. Drizzle the stuffed bell peppers with cooking oil and cover the baking dish with foil.
  6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
  7. Serve the Chikanda Ya Nsima stuffed bell peppers hot, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
40 minutes
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
300 per serving
Carbohydrates
45g
Protein
10g
Fat
8g

Supplies

Baking dish Foil

Tools

Knife Cutting board Large bowl Baking sheet

Serving suggestions

Serve the Chikanda Ya Nsima stuffed bell peppers with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

For a spicier kick, add some chopped green chilies to the chikanda and nsima mixture before stuffing the bell peppers.

Cost

$10