University of Colorado Denver’s Chef Mwansa Leads Culinary Journey

The University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver) recently hosted a special event at City Heights Dining Hall, where attendees had the unique opportunity to experience the rich flavors of Zambian cuisine. Led by Executive Chef Simon Mwansa, a distinguished member of the Lynx Dining by Sodexo, the event celebrated Zambia’s culinary heritage and provided an immersive cultural experience.

Chef Mwansa, born and raised in Lusaka, Zambia, brings a wealth of expertise to CU Denver. He attended the Hotel and Tourism Training Institute in Zambia, where he graduated as the top student in his class. Afterward, he taught culinary school for nine years and became the Executive Chef at the Parliament Hotel in Zambia. During his career, he catered for dignitaries, including sitting and former Presidents and members of Parliament. In 2010, Chef Mwansa moved to the U.S. and worked as Banquet Sous Chef at the Hyatt in Denver before joining CU Denver in 2022.

At the event, Chef Mwansa guided guests through a carefully curated menu of traditional Zambian dishes. The meal began with Coleslaw Salad and Biltong Chips, followed by a main course of Nshima, a traditional Zambian staple, paired with Oxtail Stew, Fried Whole Tilapia with Onion & Tomato Sauce, and a Local Vegetable Stew. The event concluded with Zambian Fritters (Vitumbuwa) for dessert, offering guests a complete experience of Zambia’s diverse and flavorful cuisine.

As each dish was served, Chef Mwansa shared stories about its cultural significance. He highlighted the importance of Nshima, a dish made from ground maize, which is central to Zambian meals and typically served alongside a variety of stews. The rich, hearty Oxtail Stew and the fresh Fried Tilapia reflected the range of ingredients and techniques in Zambian cooking. The meal fostered a deeper understanding of Zambia's food traditions, demonstrating how food brings people together.

Attendees were enthusiastic about their first experience with Zambian cuisine. Many were excited by the unique flavors and ingredients, while others appreciated the communal nature of the meal, which sparked engaging conversations about the culture. One participant remarked, "Bringing Zambia to CU Denver makes us feel closer to Chef Simon and experience his culture." The event offered an opportunity for guests to learn about Zambian culinary traditions and connect through shared dining experiences.

Chef Mwansa was inspired to share Zambian cuisine at CU Denver to highlight the rich culinary heritage of his home country and to promote cultural appreciation among the university’s diverse community. By showcasing traditional dishes, he aimed to create an inclusive dining experience that encourages engagement with different cultures. His goals for the Lynx Dining program include fostering diversity in food offerings and using meals as a way to build connections and inspire curiosity.

Chef Mwansa’s culinary journey, from Lusaka to CU Denver, reflects his dedication to using food as a means of cultural expression and connection. His passion for sharing his heritage was clear throughout the event, and his efforts provided the CU Denver community with a meaningful and memorable introduction to Zambian cuisine.