Zambian Ifisashi

Perhaps you’ve sampled one of the Operation Rice Bowl recipes from Vietnam this past week. If so, you’ve likely welcomed the opportunity to unite with the Vietnamese people through this unique Catholic Relief Services program, which stresses prayer, fasting and acts of charity.

Zambia is another country that Operation Rice Bowl is highlighting this year. This ifisashi recipe from Zambia is a traditional thick, buttery peanut sauce with tomatoes, onions and greens served over hot rice. CJK

Zambian Ifisashi

(Operation Rice Bowl)

Photo by Philip Laubner/CRS

2 to 3 cups water

1 cup chopped peanuts

2 tomatoes, chopped

1 onion, finely chopped

2 bunches fresh collard greens (or spinach), washed and chopped

Salt to taste

2 to 4 cups hot cooked rice

Bring water to a boil in a medium pot and add the peanuts, tomatoes, and onion. After a few minutes, add the chopped greens. Stir occasionally while continuing to cook for about 15 to 20 minutes or until peanuts are soft and mixture has become a thick buttery sauce.

Serve hot over rice.

Yield:  4 to 5 servings

A note from Carol: I’ve learned from “The Zambian” website that versions of this stew-like combination are found all over central and southern Africa. While usually a vegetarian meal, meat is added if it’s available. Ifisashi is generally served with nshima, a cornmeal dumpling or mush.