African cuisine has a long and rich history that spans centuries, with each country boasting its unique flavours and ingredients. From the savoury tastes of West African Jollof Rice to the spicy dishes of East African Piri-Piri Chicken, there is no shortage of delicious traditional recipes to explore. In this blog, we will be taking a look at 16 of the most popular and beloved African dishes from across the continent – so get your taste buds ready! Let’s dive into some classic meals that you won’t want to miss out on.
To introduce the topic, here’s an example of the challenge you might get from a card in our deck:
Muamba de Galinha – Angola
Muamba de Galinha is a dish from Angola that is made with chicken, peanut butter, and okra. The chicken is cooked in peanut butter and okra until it is tender. The dish is often served over rice. Muamba de Galinha is a hearty and flavourful dish that is sure to please.
Kabsa – Saudi Arabia
Kabsa is a popular dish from Saudi Arabia that is made with chicken, rice, and spices. It is typically served with a side of salad and bread. The dish has a spicy flavour and is very hearty. Kabsa is a great option for a winter meal.
Jollof rice – Nigeria
Jollof rice is a popular dish in many African countries. It is typically made with rice, tomatoes, onion, and chilli pepper. Jollof rice is often served with chicken or fish. The dish is said to have originated in Nigeria, but it is also popular in Ghana, Senegal, and other African countries. Jollof rice is usually prepared by boiling the rice in a pot of water or broth. Once the rice is cooked, the tomato sauce and other ingredients are added to the pot. The dish is simmered until all of the ingredients are fully cooked. Jollof rice is typically served hot and garnished with green onions or parsley.
Bobotie – South Africa
When it comes to African cuisine, there is certainly no shortage of delicious dishes to choose from. One of the most popular options is the Bobotie, a savoury pie that originates from South Africa. The dish is made with ground beef or lamb that is mixed with eggs, bread crumbs, and a variety of spices. Once the filling is cooked, it is topped with a custard-like mixture and baked until golden brown. Bobotie can be served hot or cold and is often garnished with raisins or dried fruit. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or a tasty snack, Bobotie is sure to satisfy you.
Kushari – Egypt
Kushari is a dish that originates from Egypt. It is made up of rice, macaroni, and lentils, and is typically topped with tomato sauce. Kushari is one of the most popular dishes in Egypt and is often served as a street food. It is a hearty and filling dish and can be easily customized to suit any dietary needs. Kushari is a great example of the diversity of African cuisine. There are many different types of African dishes, each with its unique flavour. However, what they all have in common is that they are hearty and nutritious. So if you’re ever in the mood for something new, be sure to give Kushari a try.
Couscous – Algeria
For many people, the word couscous conjures up images of a bland, dry grain that is best avoided. However, when prepared correctly, couscous can be a delicious and nutritious meal. Originating in Algeria, couscous is a staple of many African dishes. It is made from durum wheat semolina, which is boiled and then rolled into small pellets. The pellets are then steamed, resulting in a fluffy, light grain. Couscous can be served plain or with vegetables, meat, or fish. It is also common to add spices or herbs for additional flavour. Whether you are looking for a quick and easy meal or a traditional African dish, couscous is a great option.
Ful medames – Sudan
Ful medames is one of the most popular dishes in Sudan. It is a stew made from fava beans, spices, and vegetables. The dish is typically served with bread or rice. Ful medames is usually considered a breakfast food, but it can be eaten at any time of day. The dish is healthy and filling, and it is also very inexpensive to make. Sudanese people often eat Ful medames as a quick snack or as a complete meal. The dish is also popular in other parts of Africa, including Egypt and Ethiopia. In Sudan, Ful medames is often served with a side of sour cream or yoghurt. This helps to cool the spice of the stew and makes it more palatable for some people. If you are ever in Sudan, be sure to try this delicious and nutritious dish!
