The African continent is renowned for its culinary diversity. Each country has its own characteristic products, but you can still highlight those that can be found in any part of Africa. All ingredients are usually natural, so African dishes are healthy and wholesome.
Semolina and flour
Many African dishes are based on semolina and flour. Cornmeal is used to make mashed potatoes or porridge. Yucca flour (cassava) is used to prepare fufa, a dish widespread in Africa. Yucca is also used to make semolina, which is used to thicken sauces.
Sweet potato
The sweet potato appeared in Africa thanks to the Portuguese, they brought this root crop from South America. It has a sweet taste and is prepared in the same way as potatoes. The root vegetable is valued for its high nutritional value, it contains a large amount of iron, calcium, vitamins C and B.
Yam
Another root vegetable similar to potatoes. Its weight can reach 45 kg, and it is used as a side dish, served with sauces and soups.
Papaya
One of the most common fruits on the African continent. Its pulp and seeds go well with meat dishes. In addition, papaya is used to prevent stomach ailments.
Cassava (yucca)
The fibrous root vegetable is the basic one in the diet of the inhabitants of Africa. Cassava is used to make tapioca (flour). The root vegetable can be fried, stewed, or boiled. It is not eaten fresh.
A fish
In African cuisine, you can find fish in any form - fresh, salted or smoked. To keep the fish longer, it is salted or dried in the sun for a long time, so that it can be used later for making sauces.
Cassava leaves
In Africa, the consumption of the leaves of various plants and the tops of vegetables is widespread. The most popular are cassava leaves, which are similar to spinach when processed. They are usually served with fish, meat and sauces. It is believed that cassava leaves are capable of enhancing libido in women.
African eggplant
This African nightshade vegetable tastes like eggplant, but can be easily confused with pumpkin in appearance.
Okra
This herb has other names as well - okra, ladies' fingers or gombo. The fruits resemble green pepper pods, they are covered with the finest hairs. Okra is used for making sauces, stews, soups. Her taste is sweet, it is somewhat similar to a mixture of zucchini and green beans. Okra seeds are often used to make a beverage that tastes like coffee.
Palm oil
This is an extract of the fruit of the Guinean palm, it has a pronounced nutty taste and orange color, due to which the dishes become golden. Butter is relatively expensive, so peanut butter is often substituted for it.
Palm wine
This popular alcoholic drink can be found under different names - atan, bangui or libongo, like palm oil, it is made from the Guinean palm.
