As Ghanaians worldwide celebrate the nation’s independence every March, it’s the perfect time to spotlight one of the country’s most beloved treasures its food. Ghanaian cuisine is a vibrant reflection of the nation’s diverse culture, history, and traditions. From street food to hearty meals shared at home, these dishes bring people together and carry stories across generations.
If you’ve ever wondered what are Ghana’s most popular traditional foods, here are five iconic Ghanaian dishes you must try:
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5 Must-Try Ghanaian Traditional Dishes
What is Ghana’s most popular food? What to eat in Ghana? What are five traditional foods? Here are five beloved Ghanaian dishes that have become hallmarks of the nation’s culinary experience:
1. Waakye
Waakye is one of the most famous Ghanaian breakfast dishes, though it’s eaten at any time of the day. Made with rice and beans, Waakye gets its signature grayish or wine hue from dried millet leaves used during cooking.
It’s typically served with:
- Salad
- Tomato stew
- Shito (hot pepper sauce)
- Meat, fish, or eggs
- Fried plantains
Waakye is more than just food — it’s a complete meal that reflects Ghana’s love for variety on a single plate.
2. Jollof Rice
No list of Ghanaian foods is complete without Jollof Rice. Though it originated in Senegal, Jollof has become a West African staple and a source of national pride in Ghana.
It’s made by cooking rice in a spicy tomato stew with stock, herbs, and seasoning. Ghanaian Jollof is often paired with:
- Fried plantains
- Salad
- Grilled or fried chicken, beef, or fish
Jollof is a must-have at parties, weddings, and festive occasions — and yes, Ghanaians proudly claim theirs is the best in West Africa.
3. Banku
Banku is a staple across Ghana, especially in coastal communities. It’s made by mixing fermented corn dough and cassava dough, which is then cooked into a smooth, stretchy ball.
It’s commonly enjoyed with:
- Okra soup
- Palm nut soup
- Groundnut (peanut) soup
- Tomato stew
- Grilled tilapia with hot pepper sauce
Banku is filling, nutritious, and best eaten with your hands — making the dining experience even more authentic.
4. Kelewele
Looking for a quick street food snack? Kelewele is the answer. Made from diced ripe plantains seasoned with a mix of pepper, ginger, cloves, and spices, it’s then deep-fried until golden brown.
Kelewele is usually served at night by street vendors and is often paired with roasted groundnuts (peanuts). Spicy, sweet, and crunchy — it’s a true Ghanaian comfort food.
5. Tuo Zaafi (TZ)
Originally from northern Ghana, Tuo Zaafi (or TZ) is now popular nationwide. It’s made from maize and millet flour, stirred with water until it forms a smooth, firm consistency.
Traditionally, it’s eaten with:
- Okra soup
- Tomato stew
- Meat, often beef or goat
Tuo Zaafi is more than food — it’s a cultural experience and a proud symbol of Ghana’s northern heritage.
Explore More of Ghanaian Cuisine
While this list highlights only five dishes, Ghana’s culinary landscape is rich with many more meals that bring people together and unite cultures. To fully experience the diverse flavors of Ghana, visit a local Ghanaian restaurant or eatery near you and savor the variety of traditional dishes.
FAQ Section about Ghanaian Traditional Dishes
What is Ghana’s most popular food?
Ghana’s most popular food is Jollof Rice, a tomato-based rice dish enjoyed at parties and family gatherings. Other favorites include Waakye and Banku.
What are five traditional foods in Ghana?
Five traditional Ghanaian foods include Waakye, Jollof Rice, Banku, Kelewele, and Tuo Zaafi. Each dish reflects Ghana’s culture and diverse regions.
What do Ghanaians eat the most?
Staple foods in Ghana include maize, cassava, plantains, rice, and yams. Dishes like Banku with tilapia, Waakye, and Fufu with soup are everyday favorites.
What is Ghana’s national dish?
While Ghana doesn’t have an official national dish, Jollof Rice and Fufu are widely considered as symbolic meals of Ghanaian identity and culture.
