Africa is a continent that is full of unique and diverse cultures, and one of the best ways to experience these cultures is through their cuisine. From the spicy flavors of North Africa to the savory dishes of West Africa, there is something for everyone to enjoy. As an African immigrant in America, I have had the opportunity to taste many of the exotic dishes that my home continent has to offer. In this blog post, I will be sharing my top 10 favorite African dishes that may sound strange to some, but are definitely worth trying.
Jollof Rice:
Jollof rice is a staple dish in many West African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal. It is made with rice, tomatoes, onions, and a blend of spices. What makes it unique is that the rice is cooked in a tomato and spice sauce, giving it a distinct reddish color and a bold flavor.
Pounded Yam and Egusi Soup:
Pounded yam is a popular side dish in West Africa that is made by boiling yam and pounding it until it becomes a smooth and stretchy dough. It is often paired with a soup made from ground melon seeds, vegetables, and sometimes meat. The egusi soup has a nutty flavor and is a favorite among many Africans.
Fufu and Peanut Soup:
Fufu is another starchy side dish made by boiling cassava or yam and pounding it until it becomes a smooth dough. It is often eaten with peanut soup, which is made from ground peanuts and vegetables. The soup has a creamy texture and a sweet and savory flavor.
Bunny Chow:
Bunny Chow is a popular street food in South Africa that is made by hollowing out a loaf of bread and filling it with curry. The curry can be made with a variety of meats, including chicken, lamb, or beef, and is often spiced with chili peppers and curry powder.
Suya:
Suya is a popular snack in West Africa that consists of skewered and grilled meat that is seasoned with a blend of spices, including chili pepper, ginger, and garlic. It is often served with onions, tomatoes, and a spicy peanut sauce.
Bobotie:
Bobotie is a dish from South Africa that is made with spiced minced meat, eggs, and milk, and topped with a layer of savory custard. It is often served with yellow rice and is a favorite among many South Africans.
Braai:
Braai is a traditional South African barbecue that is often served with a variety of meats, including beef, lamb, and boerewors, a type of sausage. It is often accompanied by side dishes such as pap, a type of porridge made from cornmeal, and chakalaka, a spicy relish made from tomatoes, onions, and chili peppers.
Moambe Chicken:
Moambe chicken is a dish from the Democratic Republic of Congo that is made with chicken cooked in a sauce made from palm oil, onions, and tomatoes. The sauce has a rich and slightly sweet flavor and is often served with rice or fufu.
Akara:
Akara is a popular breakfast food in Nigeria that is made from black-eyed peas that have been soaked, ground, and fried into small fritters. They are often served with a spicy tomato sauce and bread.
Chapati and Pilau:
Chapati is a type of flatbread that is common in East Africa and is often served with pilau, a spicy rice dish that is made with a blend of spices, including cinnamon, cumin, and cardamom. It is often served with meat or vegetables.
