12 popular local drinks and foods to try out in Ghana

12 popular local drinks and foods to try out in Ghana

When visiting Ghana as a tourist, you'll have the opportunity to explore the rich and diverse culinary culture of the country. Ghanaian cuisine is known for its bold flavours and use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Here are some popular local drinks and foods to try out:

Jollof Rice

Jollof rice is a beloved West African dish, and each country has its own variation. In Ghana, it typically consists of rice cooked with tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices. It's often served with fried or grilled chicken, fish, or beef.

Waakye

Waakye is a popular Ghanaian dish made from rice and beans, cooked with millet leaves, giving it a distinct reddish-brown color. It's usually served with a variety of accompaniments like fried fish, boiled eggs, spaghetti, and sauces.

Fufu and Light Soup

Fufu is a starchy dish made from cassava, plantains, or yams. It's pounded into a smooth, dough-like consistency and typically served with a flavorful soup, such as light soup made with vegetables and your choice of meat or fish.

Palm Wine

If you're looking for an authentic local drink experience, try palm wine. It's a traditional alcoholic beverage made from the sap of palm trees. It has a sweet and slightly sour taste and is often consumed fresh.

Sobolo

Sobolo is a refreshing Ghanaian drink made from hibiscus flowers, ginger, and other spices. It's often sweetened and served cold, making it a perfect beverage to beat the heat.

4. Kelewele: Kelewele is a popular Ghanaian street food made from fried spicy plantains. It's often served as a snack or side dish and can be quite spicy, so be prepared for some heat!

5. Banku and Tilapia: Banku is another starchy staple made from fermented corn and cassava dough. It's commonly paired with grilled tilapia fish and spicy pepper sauce. This is a favourite dish for many Ghanaians.

6. Red Red: Red Red is a hearty Ghanaian stew made from black-eyed peas, palm oil, and various spices. It's often served with fried plantains and can be enjoyed with fish or meat.

7. Kenkey: Kenkey is a fermented corn and cassava dumpling, similar to banku, and is a staple in Ghanaian cuisine. It's often served with fried fish and pepper sauce.

8. Ghanaian Soups: Ghana has a variety of delicious soups, including groundnut soup (made with peanuts), palm nut soup (made with palm fruit extract), and okra soup. These soups are typically served with rice balls or fufu.

9. Suya: Suya is a popular street food in Ghana made from skewered and grilled meat, usually beef or chicken, and served with a spicy peanut sauce.

10. Sobolo: Sobolo is a refreshing Ghanaian drink made from hibiscus flowers, ginger, and other spices. It's often sweetened and served cold, making it a perfect beverage to beat the heat.

11. Palm Wine: If you're looking for an authentic local drink experience, try palm wine. It's a traditional alcoholic beverage made from the sap of palm trees. It has a sweet and slightly sour taste and is often consumed fresh.

12. Asana: Asana is a popular Ghanaian fruit juice made from the dried pulp of the baobab fruit. It's a refreshing and tangy drink, often enjoyed with sugar and water.

Don't miss the chance to sample these delicious dishes and beverages while exploring Ghana. Each region may have its own specialties and variations, so be sure to ask locals for their recommendations as well. Enjoy your culinary journey in Ghana!