Matemba

Matemba

Matemba (mah-TEHM-bah)

Dried Kapenta Fish

Prep Time 10 min
📈 Difficulty Easy
👥 Servings
4
🔥 Calories 270 kcal

Small dried kapenta fish cooked in a savory tomato and onion sauce, a cheap and protein-packed everyday relish.

Nutrition & Info

270 kcal per serving
Protein 30.0g
Carbs 8.0g
Fat 13.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

dairy-free gluten-free nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ fish

Equipment Needed

skillet wooden spoon

Presentation Guide

Vessel: plate

Garnishes: lemon

Accompaniments: nsima

Instructions

  1. 1

    Rinse dried matemba.

  2. 2

    Fry onion in oil until soft.

  3. 3

    Add tomatoes and cook down.

  4. 4

    Add matemba and a little water.

  5. 5

    Simmer 15 minutes, season with salt.

💡

Did You Know?

Matemba is one of the cheapest protein sources in Malawi and feeds millions daily.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • skillet
  • wooden spoon

Garnishing

lemon

Accompaniments

nsima

The Story Behind Matemba

Matemba, small dried kapenta fish, became a major food source in Malawi following the introduction of kapenta fishing on Lake Malawi in the mid-20th century. The practice of sun-drying small fish for preservation, however, has ancient roots in lakeshore communities that have relied on Lake Malawi's abundant fisheries for millennia. Matemba's affordability and high protein content have made it one of the most important everyday protein sources for Malawians across all income levels.

Comments (0)

No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!