Top 10 African Foods You Should Try

Africa is one of the continents filled with many tourist destinations. But, the delectable African food items make travellers return after their first trip. One bite usually triggers an insatiable craving for spicy food. Every year, millions of travellers visit different African countries to take advantage of the amazing food and climate. 

Africa has many dishes, and you'll have plenty by the variety. Each region of Africa is home to a distinct food they're known for. In addition, African food is popular because of the high use of local foods, spices, fruits, vegetables and even grains. Without much effort, thirteen of the more well-known African food items are here.

Are African foods spicy?

Each African region offers a smoky delight that will make you gasp for air. While hot peppers and chillies are the most popular hot spice, other regional favourites are also. These include cumin, ginger and cinnamon, coriander seeds, curry, garlic, and sesame seeds. Also, be sure to know your allergies and request the ingredients. It is best to consume only the foods your body can tolerate.

What is the most consumed food item in Africa?

The most well-known African food items will be based on the country you live in. Different countries have their staples. For instance, if you visit West Africa, you'll find that the food most commonly consumed can be found in Jollof rice. In Kenya, Irio and nyama are the most frequently consumed foods. If you're seeking the food that is the most consumed, the answer is cereal.

Thirteen of the Most Popular African Foods

Since we've included 13 types of food items on this list, it's possible not to discover all of them according to the region of the continent you're visiting. Also, the popularity of food is different. But, no matter what area you travel to, you will likely be able to find one or two dishes on our list.

#1. Jollof Rice (Nigeria)

The first one on the list of items to consider is Jollof rice, which is a staple of West Africa. When you've visited Nigeria, it is a must that you don't leave the country without tasting this delectable dish. Jollof is one of the most delicious dishes that has gained popularity worldwide. Jollof rice is cooked in a pot and seasoned with tomato sauce. It is served with meat or fish (chicken and beef). Jollof rice has become the main dish for festive celebrations and gatherings. In some instances, you can receive Jollof rice served with Egusi soup. There's a tug-of-war in Nigeria and Ghana on who can make the most delicious Jollof rice.

#2. Chicken Muamba (Angola)

There's a phrase that says, "When you go to Rome, be like Romans". Similar to when you travel to Luanda, be the same as Angolans. In this instance, it is necessary to experience chicken Muamba as one of Angola's most distinctive cuisines. Chicken is cooked in Muamba with palm oil, garlic Okra, chillis, and okra. It is usually served with fufu, igali or fungi. It is among the African dishes that can be extremely spicy.

#3. Nyama na irio (Kenya)

Ten Kenyans about their favourite food, and most will answer Nyama Na Irio. Nyama is an Irio is a common Kikuyu popular staple meal. It has been popular throughout the country and has become an absolute favourite of many Kenyans. Irio is a mix of potatoes that have been mashed with beans, peas, beans, onion, and corn. The dish is served alongside "Nyama", a meat stew cooked and marinated in spices. This kind of African food during weddings or traditional celebrations.

#4. Pastilla (Morocco)

Moroccan dishes have gained international recognition throughout the years. But Moroccan tagine Pastilla is not your typical food item. It is not available in your standard cookbooks. Pastilla is a pie made of chicken shredded and covered in a thick egg sauce and natural spice. It is rare to find an important celebration in Morocco where they don't serve this dish. In its absence, it renders the event unfinished.

#5. Koki Bean cake (Cameroon)

Koki or beans cake is a delicious snack in Central Africa, Cameroon. It is a must-have food when you travel to this area. The primary ingredient is cowpeas. The peas are cooked, mixed, and placed in banana leaves before being steamed. Koki is a bright red colour due to the red palm oil, chilli and sauce made from palm nuts. If you've had an experience, let us know your experiences in the comment box below.

#6. Bunny Chow (South Africa)

We don't know exactly the story behind how South Africa's most renowned African food was named. What is certain is Bunny Chow is one of the most revered street food items. Bunny Chow is a hollowed-out quarter loaf filled with vegetable and meat curries. Curries made of meat and vegetables to South Africa in the 19th century by Indians. In addition, you can taste these delicious street food options throughout all major cities across the world.

#7. Kapenta, along with Sadza (Zimbabwe)

One of Zimbabwe's culinary delights is fried kapenta, crisp and crispy, and Sadza. Kapenta includes two freshwater fish species that originate from Lake Tanganyika. As with many African dishes, Kapenta comes side-by-side with a delicious bowl of maize porridge referred to as Sadza. It is possible to purchase Kapenta in either dried or fresh forms. In addition, you can cook it with tomatoes, onions and groundnut powder. It's served with fresh vegetables. The traditional method to eat Kapenta is to grab Sadza and roll it over the fish with your hands.

#8. Pilau (Tanzania/Kenya)

One of Tanzania's most popular dishes is pilau. This African dish is derived from pilau, an Indian rice dish. But, adding different spices during the preparation makes the dish unique. Pilau rice is cooked with cloves, cardamom, cinnamon and pepper, ginger, and garlic. Additionally, you can include meat, fish, eggs, chicken, or fish in the recipe. It is a meal that is typically reserved for special occasions or celebrations.

#9. Matoke (Uganda)

Uganda is a fantastic travel destination for those who love wildlife. It is due to breathtaking natural landscapes, stunning eateries, and tasty Uganda matoke cuisine. A trip to Uganda isn't complete without tasting this tasty delight. Matoke is made by smashing unripe and cooked green bananas. It's usually served with peanuts, meat stew, or even vegetables. Strangely, this shouldn't come as a shock, given it's the case that Uganda is among the biggest exporters of bananas to European markets.

#10. Cassava leaf, rice (Liberia)

When Liberians aren't eating Jollof rice and churning it with cassava leaves, cassava leaf soup is a favourite dish in Liberia. To cook the dish, boil rice in separate pots. After that, you can pick the cassava leaves, wash them, boil them, and then pound them with meat, fish, and coconut milk. The final product is luscious and surprisingly inviting. Comment on your impressions of this recipe in the comment section below.

Conclusion

Africa comprises 54 countries, and each one of them has distinctive food styles. Although we cannot cover the entire list, the ones listed above are the most popular African food items found in various regions of the continent. So, whether going towards the north or south, east or west, there is something to taste.