Ghana, a vibrant country in West Africa, is renowned for its rich culture and diverse cuisine. From hearty stews to flavorful street food, Ghanaian dishes are a feast for the senses. Here’s a guide to some of the best food you must try when visiting Ghana.
1. Jollof Rice
Jollof rice is a beloved West African dish, and Ghana’s version is particularly famous. This one-pot dish features rice cooked in a rich tomato sauce with onions, bell peppers, and a blend of spices. Often served with fried plantains, chicken, or fish, Jollof rice is a must-try for anyone visiting Ghana1.
2. Fufu and Light Soup
Fufu is a starchy side made from boiled and pounded cassava, yams, or plantains. It’s typically served with a variety of soups, but light soup—a spicy tomato-based soup—is a favorite. The combination of the smooth, doughy fufu and the flavorful soup is a staple in Ghanaian cuisine2.
3. Waakye
Waakye is a popular breakfast and lunch dish made from rice and beans cooked with millet leaves, which give it a distinctive color. It’s usually served with fried plantains, boiled eggs, spaghetti, and a variety of meats or fish. The dish is often accompanied by shito, a spicy black pepper sauce3.
4. Kelewele
Kelewele is a spicy fried plantain dish that’s perfect as a snack or side. The plantains are marinated in a mixture of ginger, garlic, and chili peppers before being fried to a golden brown. The result is a deliciously sweet and spicy treat that’s hard to resist1.
5. Banku and Tilapia
Banku is a fermented corn and cassava dough that’s cooked into a smooth, doughy consistency. It’s often paired with grilled tilapia, seasoned with a blend of spices and served with a spicy pepper sauce. This dish is a favorite along the coastal regions of Ghana1.
6. Red Red
Red Red is a hearty bean stew made with black-eyed peas cooked in palm oil with tomatoes, onions, and spices. It’s typically served with fried plantains, making it a filling and nutritious meal. The name comes from the red color of the palm oil and tomatoes2.
7. Kenkey
Kenkey is a fermented corn dough that’s wrapped in corn husks and steamed. It has a slightly sour taste and is usually served with fried fish and a spicy pepper sauce. This dish is particularly popular among the Ga people of the Greater Accra region1.
8. Groundnut Soup
Groundnut (peanut) soup is a creamy, rich soup made from ground peanuts, tomatoes, and spices. It’s often served with rice balls or fufu. The combination of the nutty soup and the starchy side makes for a comforting and satisfying meal3.
9. Tuo Zaafi
Tuo Zaafi, also known as TZ, is a staple in the northern regions of Ghana. It’s made from maize flour and served with a green leafy soup called ayoyo. The dish is known for its light, stretchy texture and is a favorite among the locals1.
10. Bofrot
Bofrot, also known as puff-puff, is a popular street food snack. These deep-fried dough balls are slightly sweet and fluffy on the inside, making them a perfect treat any time of the day1.
Exploring Ghanaian cuisine is a delightful journey through a variety of flavors and textures. Whether you’re enjoying a hearty meal at a local chop bar or sampling street food, the culinary delights of Ghana are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Have you tried any of these dishes before? Which one are you most excited to taste?
