What exactly is the Congolese Lingalinga — and can it save South African lives?
The answer is yes. This vegetable is scientifically known as Hibiscus sabdariffa, and depending on where you are in the world, it also goes by Roselle, Zobo, Bissap, Sorrel, or Lalo. In the Congo and across Central Africa, it is fondly called Ngai-ngai in Lingala, and in some communities it is simply known as Lingalinga.
A Garden Discovery at Tivoli
Gardens are truly where the spirit feels restored. For months, I spent time at Tivoli Gardens — at first believing it to be just a collection of exotic plants.
Over time, I discovered that nestled within this garden were not only beautiful plants, but also some of the tastiest Congolese vegetables.
One of these was the Lingalinga, a plant of Congolese origin but perfectly grown in South African soil. When the rains come, these plants grow tall and vigorous, and when harvest time arrives, it offers leaves that can keep a family nourished for months.
How Lingalinga is Enjoyed in the Congo
In Congolese cuisine, Lingalinga (Ngai-ngai) is prized for its slightly sour, refreshing taste. It is most often:
- Cooked with groundnut (peanut) sauce to balance the sourness.
- Added to stews with fish, chicken, or beef.
- Served alongside fufu, cassava, or rice, making it both a daily staple and a cultural delicacy.
The sour leaves give depth to sauces, much like how spinach or morogo enrich South African dishes.
How South Africans Can Cook With It
On South African plates, Lingalinga can be just as versatile:
- As a spinach substitute: Lightly sauté the leaves with onion, tomato, and garlic.
- With pap: A tangy side dish to complement maize meal, balancing richness with freshness.
- In a stew: Add to beef, chicken, or fish stew for a flavourful, slightly acidic bite.
- As a herbal tea: Its red calyces can be brewed into a refreshing, cranberry-like tea similar to rooibos but tangier.
- With peanut butter: Borrowing from Congolese tradition, simmer the leaves with peanut butter for a creamy, nourishing dish.
Why would you want to add Lingalinga to your South African?
Lingalinga is more than just a plant. It’s a bridge between Congolese tradition and South African potential. At a time when food security and nutrition are pressing concerns, this humble plant could help diversify South African diets, fight hunger, and enrich culinary culture.
From Congo to South Africa, Lingalinga shows us that food is heritage, resilience, and hope — all growing in the soil beneath our feet.
