Swahili Canteen

We ate really well in Tanzania. Every lodge or camp we stayed in had local, delicious, fresh food aplenty, and though I ate a ton, I felt lighter when I got home. My pants even fit better! Really, aside from lots of wine and the Pringles we found at the Serengeti Gate, the eating was very clean. My plan was to replicate it when I got home, but it was snowing and I got sick for three weeks so. . . delivery pizza happened more often than it should have.

Now that it is beautiful out and I am feeling better, I am once again thinking of the food in Tanzania and our lunch on our last day in Arusha at Swahili Canteen. Located in a modern shopping area full of ex-pats, Swahili Canteen is a sweet little place for family-style dining, with a communal table as well as outdoor seating. Prior to lunch we had time to browse the shops, and then we all came back together for a feast made by the beautiful chef, Agnes.

Lunch was served family style, and Agnes brought out plate after plate, coconut beef, chicken, fresh avocado.

Everything was simple and elegant and bright. I loved the plates we ate from.

I also loved this cucumber, tomato, and onion salad, which was fresh, crunchy, and had a kick. I could easily eat it every night. The spinach salad was equally as delicious.

Beans and lentils were a common part of our meals in Tanzania, and I loved them every time, mixed in with some rice and salad. It’s really kind of the perfect meal.

And I can’t forget the Piri Piri, a spicy pepper sauce that was also often served with our meals. I love spice, and all of the separate dishes lent themselves to a dollop of this delicious condiment. I have already Googled the recipe and plan on making it to top grilled chicken and veggies.

Look at this plate! Flatbread, lentils, cabbage, rice, spinach, avocado, Piri Piri. . .this might be one of the most delicious and beautiful plates of food I have ever eaten, no exaggerations. I just wanted to keep eating. Agnes was an incredible hostess and chef, and this last stop on our Tanzania journey was one of the highlights.

Don’t fret. . . there’s more Tanzania to come, including two gorgeous lodges and a game drive. It’s hard to condense the trip of a lifetime into just a few posts.

Happy Friday!