Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Accra, Greater Accra, Ghana
1. Kelewele (Spicy Fried Plantain)
Juicy and spicy fried plantains seasoned with ground red pepper and ginger - a mouthwatering street snack popular in Accra.
- Street Food: Easily found on bustling streets for an affordable meal.
- Spiciness Level: Varying spice levels cater to different tastes.
- Quick Snack: Ideal for a quick, satisfying bite between activities.
2. Banku and Tilapia (Cornmeal and Fermented Mashed Plantain)
A traditional Ghanaian dish consisting of fermented cornmeal and mashed plantains served with smoked tilapia fish - a filling meal to savor.
- Traditional Meal: A must-try for understanding Ghanaian cuisine.
- Local Ingredients: Uses local corn and tilapia fish, supporting the community economy.
- Fusion Variations: Some restaurants offer modern twists on this classic dish.
3. Kenkey (Cornmeal Dish Steamed in Cornhusk)
A savory and soft corn dough steamed inside cornhusks, often served with fish or stew - a staple food in Ghana.
- Cultural Significance: An essential part of daily life and special occasions in Ghanaian culture.
- Versatility: Pairs well with various meats, stews, and soups.
- Authentic Experience: Try it from street vendors for a genuine experience.
4. Red Red (Bean Stew with Fufu)
A hearty dish made of black-eyed peas stewed in palm oil and served with fufu (fermented mashed yam or cassava), a favorite comfort food.
- Comfort Food: A delicious, filling meal that warms the soul.
- Regional Variations: Recipes may vary depending on region within Ghana.
- Vegetarian Option: Excellent option for vegetarians and vegans with the right preparation.
5. Jollof Rice (West African Spicy Rice)
A vibrant one-pot dish of rice, vegetables, and meat or fish simmered in a tomato-based sauce - a popular West African comfort food.
- West African Flavor: A tasty reminder of the shared culinary heritage across West Africa.
- Competitive Dish: Known as a friendly competition between countries on who makes the best Jollof Rice.
- Social Meal: Best enjoyed in social settings, shared among friends and family.
6. Fufu Zomi (Cassava Fufu with Groundnuts)
A savory dish made of mashed cassava dough combined with groundnuts and served as a side or main course - a unique Ghanaian specialty.
- Local Ingredient: Uses locally grown cassava and groundnuts.
- Versatile Side Dish: Pairs well with soups, stews, or grilled meats.
- Authentic Taste: Experience the rich, earthy flavor of traditional Ghanaian cuisine.
7. Ghanaian Pounded Yams (Fufu made from Yam)
A soft, sticky, and starchy dish made from mashed yams served as a side or main course - a popular Ghanaian comfort food.
- Comfort Food: A delicious, filling meal that warms the soul.
- Versatility: Pairs well with various meats, stews, or soups.
- Cultural Significance: An essential part of daily life and special occasions in Ghanaian culture.
8. Kontomire Stew (Palm Nut Soup)
A tasty soup made from ground palm nuts and okra served with fufu or banku - a comforting, creamy dish.
- Comfort Food: A delicious, filling meal that warms the soul.
- Regional Specialty: Originated in the Central region of Ghana but popular throughout the country.
- Unique Ingredients: Features locally sourced palm nuts and okra, providing a distinct flavor profile.
9. Shito (Spicy Sauce)
A tasty, spicy sauce made from fish, onions, and various spices - often used as a condiment or dip.
- Spiciness Level: Varying spice levels cater to different tastes.
- Versatile Condiment: Enhances the flavors of various dishes.
- Street Food Companion: Ideal for snacking on street foods like kebabs or grilled corn.
10. Kontonmire (Stewed Cowpeas)
A traditional stew made from cowpeas simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce and served with rice or fufu - a nutritious dish.
- Nutrition: High in protein and fiber, making it a healthy choice.
- Regional Specialty: Popular in the Western region of Ghana.
- Versatile Dish: Pairs well with rice, fufu, or kenkey.
11. Akple (Cornmeal Cake)
A sweet cornmeal cake steamed and served with palm nut soup or groundnut paste - a tasty dessert option.
- Sweet Dessert: Offers a satisfying, sweet conclusion to meals.
- Versatile Side Dish: Pairs well with soups, stews, or grilled meats as a side dish.
- Unique Ingredients: Uses locally sourced corn and palm nuts.
12. Groundnut Soup (Peanut Soup)
A thick, creamy soup made from peanuts, onions, and various spices - often served with rice or fufu.
- Comfort Food: A delicious, filling meal that warms the soul.
- Regional Specialty: Originated in Northern Ghana but popular throughout the country.
- Unique Ingredients: Features locally sourced peanuts, providing a distinct flavor profile.
13. Banku and Okra Stew
A hearty dish made of fermented cornmeal and mashed plantains served with a stew of okra, tomatoes, onions, and various spices - a filling meal.
- Traditional Meal: A must-try for understanding Ghanaian cuisine.
- Local Ingredients: Uses locally grown corn, okra, and plantains.
- Versatile Dish: Pairs well with various meats or fish.
14. Fried Rice Ball (Kenkey Balls)
Crispy, fried balls made from Kenkey dough - a delicious, filling snack.
- Street Food: Easily found on bustling streets for an affordable meal.
- Versatility: Can be served with various sauces or condiments.
- Portable Snack: Ideal for snacking on-the-go during sightseeing adventures.
15. Ghanaian Rice and Beans (Red Red with Rice)
A flavorful dish made of black-eyed peas stewed in palm oil, served over rice - a popular West African comfort food.
- Comfort Food: A delicious, filling meal that warms the soul.
- Regional Variations: Recipes may vary depending on region within Ghana.
- Vegetarian Option: Excellent option for vegetarians and vegans with the right preparation.