Mozambique

Mozambique is a large country in Southeast Africa with coastline on the Indian Ocean. The official language is Portuguese but there are also many vernacular ones. Most of the residents are Bantu people. The terrain includes rivers, hills, plateaus, woodlands, and highlands. The climate is tropical. Animal species in Mozambique include the very rare black rhinoceros, the dangerous spitting cobra, and aquatic mammals such as humpback whales, at least during migration. Natural gas reserves, discovered in recent years, could greatly help the country’s finances. Other important sectors of the economy include agriculture, food and beverages, chemical manufacturing, and tourism. High-quality snorkelling opportunities are common in the coastal waters, and Gorongosa National Park is a great place to take a safari. If you prefer a historical experience, visit the Palace & Chapel of São Paulo, a museum in an extraordinary building filled with artifacts. It’s worth the short trip to Mozambique Island.

Rice, millet, sorghum, and cornmeal are common starchy staples. Typical vegetables include sweet potatoes and greens. Fish is very popular, along with other meats. Matata contains clams cooked in wine with peanuts and fruits or vegetables. Try frango a calrial (African style chicken) with Portuguese piri piri, made of hot peppers, lemon juice, and spices boiled down to a thick paste. If you want plant-based cuisine, bean or squash soup can do the trick and they are available in many places. Portuguese culture is apparent not only in music and cultural traditions of Mozambique, but in great wines you can enjoy here.