From Lagos to Louisiana, Havana to Seoul—one African recipe at a time.

Exploring all 54 African nations plus the global diaspora through authentic recipes and flavors.

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Taste the Continent

From ancient bread to modern flavors - explore Africa's culinary journey

Ancient Egyptian Aish Baladi bread

The Bread of Builders

Ancient Aish Baladi - the same bread that built the pyramids

Historical
African coleslaw salad

African Coleslaw Salad

Fresh, vibrant salad with African-inspired dressing

Modern
Fried green plantain chips

Fried Plantain Chips

Crispy, addictive snacks that are truly life-changing

Snack
Rooibos tea glazed chicken wings

Rooibos Chicken Wings

African red tea glazed wings with honey sweetness

Fusion

Food with Purpose: Discover how African cuisine connects to timeless wisdom

🍽️ Start Here • Explore the Connection
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About the Author

Ivy is the researcher and writer behind The African Gourmet, blending African food, history, and cultural storytelling. Her work is cited by universities, Wikipedia, major news outlets, and global food writers.

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West African Recipes

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West African Recipes - Authentic Dishes from Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal & More

West African Recipes: Authentic Cuisine from West Africa

West African ingredients and cooking

Experience the vibrant, flavorful world of West African cuisine! From the iconic Jollof Rice debates to hearty soups and street food favorites, West African cooking represents some of Africa's most beloved and internationally recognized dishes.

Iconic West African Dishes

The classics everyone should try - these dishes define West African cuisine:

The Great Jollof Rice

Hearty West African Stews & Proteins

West African Street Food & Snacks

Quick eats and popular snacks found across West African markets:

French Fry Yams - West African snack

West African Breads & Grains

Traditional starches and grain-based dishes:

West African Desserts & Sweets

Traditional and modern sweet treats:

West African spiced dishes

West African Cooking Essentials

Key Ingredients

  • Palm Oil - Distinctive red color and rich flavor
  • Scotch Bonnet Peppers - Essential heat and flavor
  • Locust Beans (Iru/Dawadawa) - Fermented seasoning
  • Egusi Melon Seeds - For thickening soups
  • Stockfish & Dried Shrimp - Umami depth

Cooking Techniques

  • Slow Simmering - Developing deep flavors in stews
  • Pounding - Traditional preparation of spices and ingredients
  • One-Pot Cooking - Efficient meals like Jollof rice
  • Frying - For snacks like yam fries and bean dumplings

West African Flavor Profiles

Nigerian Flavors

Bold, spicy, and aromatic with heavy use of peppers, onions, and traditional seasonings. Known for rich stews and vibrant party dishes.

Ghanaian Tastes

Complex spice blends featuring ginger, grains of paradise, and smoky notes. Famous for street food and peanut-based dishes.

Liberian & Sierra Leonean

Hearty grain dishes and fusion influences with emphasis on rice-based meals and baked goods.

West African Meal Planning

Traditional Meal Structure

  • Soup/Stew - Served with swallow (fufu, pounded yam, etc.)
  • Main Course - Rice dishes with protein stews
  • Side Dishes - Fried plantains, bean dishes, or vegetable sides
  • Dessert - Fruit-based sweets or baked goods

Modern West African Menu Ideas

  • Quick Weeknight: Jollof rice with fried yam sticks
  • Party Spread: Suya, eggrolls, and multiple rice dishes
  • Healthy Option: Seasoned rice with green gram and vegetable stew

Explore More African Cuisine

Continue your culinary journey through Africa's diverse food traditions:

Adventurous Eats Soups & Stews Vegetarian Recipes

Plan a party: Build your menu with the Complete Jollof Party Menu—sides, sauces, drinks, and desserts.

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