Cookbook:Chishimba (Zambian Cassava Cake)

Chishimba is a Zambian dessert made from cassava, showcasing the unique flavor of this root vegetable in a sweet and moist cake. This traditional treat is a favorite in Zambian cuisine, often enjoyed on special occasions and gatherings.

Ingredients

 * 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
 * 2 cups grated cassava
 * 1 cup coconut milk
 * 1 cup shredded coconut
 * 1 cup brown sugar
 * 2 large eggs, beaten
 * 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
 * ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
 * ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
 * ½ teaspoon baking powder
 * 1 pinch salt h

Equipment

 * Mixing bowl
 * 9-inch round cake pan
 * Mixing spoon
 * Oven

Procedure

 * 1) Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan with vegetable oil.
 * 2) In a mixing bowl, combine the grated cassava, shredded coconut, and brown sugar. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
 * 3) Add the beaten eggs, coconut milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined.
 * 4) Sprinkle in the ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir the mixture until the spices and baking powder are fully incorporated.
 * 5) Pour the batter into the greased cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
 * 6) Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40–45 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
 * 7) Once the chishimba is fully baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the cake pan for a few minutes.
 * 8) After cooling slightly, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Notes, tips, and variations

 * You can enhance the flavor of the chishimba by adding chopped nuts or dried fruits to the batter before baking.
 * This dessert can be enjoyed on its own or served with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful treat.