Angola Fun Facts - Food
Angolan cuisine, a blend of African, Portuguese, and Brazilian influences, features dishes like Moamba de Galinha (chicken stew), Funje (cassava porridge), and Calulu (fish stew), with street food like grilled meats and maize also popular.
Here are some fun facts about Angolan food:
- National Dish:
Moamba de Galinha (chicken stew) is considered the national dish of Angola, known for its aromatic and spicy flavors, often featuring garlic, vegetables, and chili.
- Staple Food:
Funge, a porridge made from cassava flour, is a staple dish, often served with stews, fish, or meat.
- Portuguese Influence:
Angolan cuisine exhibits Portuguese influences, such as the use of olive oil and certain cooking techniques, as well as ingredients like beans and rice.
- Seafood Abundance:
With a long coastline, Angola has access to plenty of fresh seafood, making fish a common ingredient in many dishes.
- Tropical Fruits:
Angola is abundant in tropical fruits like bananas, papayas, mangoes, and pineapples, which are enjoyed fresh or used in juices and desserts.
- Street Food:
Angolan street food is diverse and popular, offering snacks like roasted corn, grilled meats, and fried fish.
- Kizaca:
Kizaca, a dish made with boiled cassava leaves, ground peanuts, and sometimes fish, is a popular vegetarian dish.
- Fried Insects:
Like in some other African countries, insects are a delicacy in Angola, with Catatos (fried caterpillars) being a common example.
- Palm Wine:
Palm wine, made from palm tree extract, is a popular alcoholic beverage in Angola, often enjoyed with traditional dishes.
- Caruru:
Caruru is an okra-and-shrimp dish that can trace its origin to Brazil.