Swaziland

Swaziland is another small country tucked inside a larger country. Located in South Africa, though, its culture and traditions vary a quite a bit from those in The Gambia.

Through the ages Swaziland was inhabited by many different peoples. Today, the language and culture in this country are predominantly Nguni in nature.

Swaziland is an absolute monarchy, the last remaining one in the southern region of Africa. Though much of its history has been full of droughts, political turmoil, and wars, it still retains its own sense of culture.

When traveling through Swaziland, one will notice the many unique fashions and practices of the Swazi. Many wear very brightly colored clothes, and women often wear their hair in a traditional 'beehive' style. The Swazis have multiple festivals unique to them which are celebrated annually, such as the Umhlanga and the Incwala.

Swazi cuisine consists of a mixture of traditional fruits, vegetables, and meats, as well as some unusual types of game, and fish shipped in from the ocean. There are some French influences in the cuisine of Swaziland, such as the inclusion of lime, garlic, and marinades. In smaller villages, you can find examples of very traditional foods, such as stews, starch-based foods, and many types of wild animals and lamb. Powder from the boabab tree is often used to thicken soups and stews, and various Indian-style foods such as lentils and curry have also found their way into the Swazi food repertoire.

The meal we will be cooking next will consist of a chicken dish cooked in a creamy sauce, yellow rice, and sweet-potato fritters.