Delicious and Authentic Matemba Recipe: A Taste of Zimbabwe

Ingredients

  • 500g dried Matemba (kapenta)
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 large tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon of paprika
  • 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • A handful of fresh coriander leaves, chopped

Steps and instructions

  1. Rinse the Matemba thoroughly under cold water to get rid of any sand or dirt.
  2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
  3. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the pan and sauté until they are soft and fragrant.
  4. Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, paprika, cayenne pepper and salt to the pan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
  5. Let the tomato mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavours to meld together.
  6. Add the rinsed Matemba to the pan and stir well to ensure that they are fully coated with the tomato mixture.
  7. Reduce the heat to low and let the Matemba simmer for about 10-15 minutes, until they are tender and fully cooked.
  8. Once the Matemba are cooked, turn off the heat and sprinkle the chopped coriander leaves over the top.
  9. Stir the coriander leaves into the Matemba just before serving to ensure that they stay fresh and vibrant.

Tools for making

  • Frying pan - A large frying pan will be needed to cook the Matemba.
  • Knife - A knife will be necessary to chop the onion, garlic, and tomatoes.
  • Cutting board - A cutting board will provide a stable surface for chopping the ingredients.
  • Spoon - A spoon will be used for stirring the ingredients in the pan.

Recipe variations

  • Add diced bell peppers or chili peppers for extra spice and flavor.
  • Include a squeeze of lemon or lime juice for a tangy twist.
  • Add a teaspoon of curry powder or garam masala for an Indian-inspired flavor profile.
  • Toss in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added freshness.
  • Experiment with different spices such as turmeric, coriander, or cumin to customize the flavor.
  • For a creamier version, stir in a tablespoon of coconut milk or cream towards the end of cooking.
  • Try grilling or baking the Matemba instead of frying for a healthier alternative.
  • Replace the Matemba with another type of small fish, such as sardines or anchovies.
  • For a vegetarian or vegan option, substitute the Matemba with tofu or tempeh.

Recipe overview

Matemba, also known as kapenta, is a popular dish in Southern African cuisine. This dish features small, dried fish cooked in a rich, spicy tomato sauce. It's a flavorful, nourishing meal that's packed with protein, vitamins, and essential minerals. This recipe takes you through the process of preparing Matemba in a straightforward and simple way. You'll start by sautéing garlic and onions until they're soft and fragrant, then add in tomatoes, tomato paste, and a variety of spices for added depth of flavor. Finally, you'll simmer the dried Matemba in this delicious sauce until they're tender and fully cooked. Sprinkled with fresh coriander leaves, this dish offers a wonderful mix of textures and flavors. Enjoy this authentic and comforting Southern African meal!

Common questions

  1. How do I clean the Matemba?
    Rinse the Matemba thoroughly under cold water to remove any sand or dirt before using them in the recipe.
  2. Can I use fresh Matemba instead of dried?
    Yes, you can use fresh Matemba if they are available. Adjust the cooking time accordingly as fresh Matemba will cook faster than dried ones.
  3. Can I use a different type of fish?
    While Matemba is traditionally used for this recipe, you can substitute it with other small, oily fish such as sardines or anchovies.
  4. Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
    Yes, you can omit the Matemba and make a vegetarian version by using vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and peas as the main ingredients.
  5. Can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?
    Yes, you can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it completely if you prefer a milder flavor. Taste the dish as you go and add more spices if desired.
  6. What can I serve with Matemba?
    Matemba can be served as a main dish with steamed rice, sadza (cornmeal porridge), or bread. It can also be enjoyed as a side dish with vegetables or salads.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Frying pan - Used to sauté the garlic and onion and cook the Matemba in the tomato mixture.
  • Wooden spoon - Useful for stirring and combining the ingredients in the frying pan.
  • Knife - Needed for mincing garlic, chopping onion, and chopping tomatoes.
  • Chopping board - Provides a surface for cutting and chopping ingredients.
  • Measuring spoons - Required for accurate measurement of the spices and tomato paste.
  • Serving platter - Used to present and serve the cooked Matemba.
  • Garnishing tool - Optional, but helpful for sprinkling the chopped coriander leaves over the Matemba.

Origin stories

Matemba, also known as kapenta, is a regional delicacy with deep roots in the culinary traditions of Southern Africa, particularly Zimbabwe. These tiny sardines, which are found in the freshwater bodies of the region, are a testament to the resourcefulness and resilience of the African people. During the times of economic hardships and scarcity, when larger, more expensive fish were out of reach, the local communities turned to the humble Matemba. They developed a way of sun-drying them, which not only preserved the fish for longer periods, but also intensified their flavour, adding a unique umami depth to the dishes. Today, Matemba has transcended its humble beginnings and has proudly carved a place for itself in the vibrant tapestry of African cuisine. It stands as a delicious symbol of a rich culinary heritage that values simplicity, ingenuity, and the bountiful gifts of nature.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.