Ghanaian cuisine is a celebration of bold flavors, rich traditions, and vibrant spices. Whether you’re indulging in smoky Jollof rice, savoring a plate of fufu with light soup, or enjoying crispy kelewele, every bite tells a story of Ghana’s deep cultural roots. Here’s a guide to some of the most delicious and iconic dishes in Ghana.
- Jollof Rice – The Legendary Dish
Jollof Rice is one of West Africa’s most famous dishes, and Ghana’s version is a must-try. This one-pot rice dish is cooked with a tomato-based sauce, onions, peppers, and spices, creating a rich, smoky, and savory flavor. It’s typically served with grilled chicken, beef, or fried fish.
Why You’ll Love It:
• A national pride and staple dish at celebrations
• A perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors
• Best paired with fried plantains and a fresh salad
- Waakye – The Breakfast of Champions
Waakye is a beloved breakfast and lunch dish made from rice and beans cooked with millet leaves, which give it a unique color and earthy flavor. It is often served with a variety of sides, such as boiled eggs, fried plantains, spaghetti, and shito (black pepper sauce).
Why You’ll Love It:
• A hearty and protein-rich meal
• Perfect for mixing with multiple toppings
• A great introduction to authentic street food culture
- Banku and Tilapia – A Coastal Delight
Banku is a fermented corn and cassava dough served with grilled tilapia and a spicy pepper sauce. This dish is popular in Ghana’s coastal regions and offers a mix of sour, smoky, and spicy flavors.
Why You’ll Love It:
• A classic seafood dish with bold flavors
• Best eaten with your hands for the full experience
• The combination of soft banku, smoky tilapia, and pepper sauce is unforgettable
- Fufu and Light Soup – The Ultimate Comfort Food
Fufu is a smooth, stretchy dough made from pounded cassava and plantains, served in a rich, flavorful broth. The most popular pairing is with light soup, a tomato-based broth cooked with goat meat, chicken, or fish.
Why You’ll Love It:
• A deeply traditional dish enjoyed across Ghana
• The broth is fragrant, spicy, and nourishing
• Eating with your hands makes it a sensory experience
- Kelewele – The Ultimate Snack
Kelewele is a simple yet irresistible snack made of ripe plantains, chopped into bite-sized pieces, and seasoned with ginger, pepper, and other spices before being deep-fried.
Why You’ll Love It:
• A crispy, spicy, and sweet flavor explosion
• Pairs well with roasted peanuts for extra crunch
• A perfect late-night or street food snack
- Red Red – The Comforting Bean Stew
Red Red is a savory, slow-cooked bean stew made with black-eyed peas, tomatoes, and red palm oil, often served with fried plantains and fish.
Why You’ll Love It:
• A nutritious and protein-packed vegetarian option
• A deep, smoky richness from the red palm oil
• Perfectly balanced with the sweetness of fried plantains
Final Thoughts
Ghana’s cuisine is a vibrant mix of bold spices, fresh ingredients, and comforting meals that reflect the heart of its people. Whether you’re indulging in a plate of Jollof, grabbing kelewele from a street vendor, or savoring the smooth texture of fufu, every meal is an experience.
