Traditional Angolan Dishes

A delicious journey into Angola’s rich culinary heritage

If you’re visiting Luanda, there’s no better way to experience the local culture than by tasting its
traditional dishes. Angolan cuisine is vibrant, diverse and deeply rooted in family traditions. Many of
these meals are shared on Sundays or during special celebrations — but you’ll also find them in local
restaurants, cooked with the same passion and heart.

Let’s dive into the most iconic dishes you should try during your time in Angola.

Moamba de Galinha

Moamba de Galinha is one of Angola’s most iconic traditional dishes — a rich chicken stew made with palm oil, okra, garlic and onions. Deeply rooted in Angolan culture, this comforting meal is often served with funge, a soft cassava flour porridge that absorbs every drop of the flavourful sauce. It’s more than food — it’s a warm invitation to gather around the table and experience the heart of Angolan cuisine.

Calulu

Calulu is a traditional Angolan stew known for its rich, earthy flavours and slow-cooked goodness. Made with dried fish or meat, leafy greens, okra, tomatoes, and onions, it reflects the depth and diversity of Angolan cuisine. Often served with funge, rice or sweet potatoes, Calulu is a beloved dish, especially enjoyed during Sunday family meals and festive occasions. Every spoonful tells a story of heritage, warmth and celebration.

Muzongué (Caldo de Peixe)

Muzongué, also known as Caldo de Peixe, is a traditional Angolan fish broth, famous for its bold flavours and revitalising qualities. Made with fresh fish, garlic, lemon and fiery malagueta peppers, this spicy soup is deeply rooted in Angolan culinary heritage. While it’s often praised as a hangover remedy, Muzongué is a nourishing and aromatic comfort dish that’s perfect at any time of day — especially when served piping hot and full of flavour.

Funge

Funge is one of the cornerstones of Angolan cuisine — a thick, smooth porridge made from cassava or corn flour, traditionally prepared with water and plenty of stirring. It’s more than just a side dish: funge is a cultural staple, typically eaten by hand and paired with hearty stews like Moamba de Galinha or Calulu. Its mild taste and dense texture make it the perfect base to soak up rich, spicy sauces, offering a true taste of everyday life in Angola.

Chikuanga

Chikuanga, also known as cassava bread, is a traditional Angolan delicacy made from fermented cassava dough, wrapped in banana or manioc leaves and steamed. With its slightly tangy flavour and dense, chewy texture, this rustic side dish is both nourishing and culturally significant. Commonly served with grilled fish, hearty stews or beans, Chikuanga is a cherished staple in both Angola and the Congo region — a true taste of ancestral tradition.

Mufete (Grilled Fish with Beans)

Mufete is a beloved Angolan dish that showcases the country’s vibrant culinary tradition. It features grilled fish — often ginga, a flavourful small fish similar to sardines or mackerel — served alongside palm oil beans, boiled plantains, cassava, and sweet potatoes. Colourful, hearty and packed with flavour, Mufete is more than just a meal: it’s a symbol of togetherness, commonly enjoyed during family gatherings, festive weekends and coastal celebrations across Angola.

Where to try these dishes in Luanda?

Feeling hungry already? 🥘 If you’re in Luanda and would love to taste these iconic dishes, we’ve selected a few traditional spots where you can enjoy real Angolan flavours — just like the ones in this list.

We’ll keep updating it as we discover more places. In the meantime, hit the button below to explore where to eat authentic Angolan food in the city!