Western Africa
Food of Ghana
The 6 most iconic national dishes of Ghana — real photos, key ingredients and tasty facts behind every plate.
Africa
Jollof rice
A beloved one-pot rice dish cooked in a rich tomato and pepper base, often served with meat, fish or fried plantain. Ghanaian versions are known for their fragrant seasoning and party-table status.
Did you know?
Jollof is central to the famous West African 'Jollof Wars', with Ghanaians and Nigerians passionately debating whose version is best.
Fufu
A smooth, stretchy starchy dough traditionally pounded from cassava and plantain, then eaten with soup by swallowing small portions. It has a mild taste that pairs with richly seasoned soups.
Did you know?
In Ghana, fufu is traditionally pounded in a large wooden mortar with a pestle, often by two people working in rhythm.
Banku
A fermented corn and cassava dough cooked into a soft, slightly tangy mound, commonly eaten with soups, stews or grilled fish. Its sour note makes it especially distinctive.
Did you know?
Banku is especially associated with southern Ghana and is famously paired with tilapia and hot pepper sauce.
Waakye
A hearty Ghanaian rice-and-beans dish, often sold by street vendors and served with an array of sides such as spaghetti, stew, egg and shito. It is savory, filling and deeply tied to everyday urban life.
Did you know?
The dish gets its characteristic color from dried sorghum leaves, which are cooked with the rice and beans.
Kelewele
Spicy fried plantain cubes seasoned with ginger, pepper and warm spices, usually eaten as a snack or side. They are sweet, hot and irresistibly aromatic.
Did you know?
Kelewele is a classic late-night street food in Ghana, especially popular in cities like Accra.
Akokɔ nte nkran
A rich Ghanaian groundnut soup often made with chicken, combining nutty depth with tomatoes, chili and savory stock. It is luxurious, warming and commonly served with fufu or rice balls.
Did you know?
The Twi name akokɔ nte nkran literally refers to chicken in groundnut soup, one of Ghana's most cherished traditional combinations.