If you really want to experience Ghana, skip the fancy hotel buffets and head to a local chop bar or street food joint. Ghanaian food tells a story of the people, culture, and regions—from the spicy coastal soups to the hearty northern stews.
Whether you’re a tourist, a returning Ghanaian, or a curious foodie, these 7 traditional dishes are the best introduction to Ghana’s rich culinary heritage.
1. Fufu and Light Soup 🍲
Arguably Ghana’s most iconic meal, Fufu is a soft, starchy dough made from boiled cassava and plantain (or yam), pounded until stretchy.
It’s typically served with light soup—a tomato-based broth loaded with goat meat, chicken, or fish. The experience of swallowing fufu (rather than chewing) is one to remember!
🔗 Why Fufu Holds a Special Place in Ghana
2. Jollof Rice 🍅🔥
https://www.pinterest.com/search/pins/?q=waakye&rs=typedThe legendary Jollof war between Ghana and Nigeria isn’t over—but Ghana’s version remains beloved for its rich tomato flavor, fragrant spices, and smoky aroma.
Ghanaian Jollof is usually made with:
- Long-grain rice
- Tomato paste
- Onions, garlic, and pepper
- Served with fried chicken, fish, or plantain
It’s a favorite at parties, weddings, and everyday meals.
3. Banku and Tilapia 🐟🔥
Banku is a fermented mix of cassava and corn dough, cooked into a smooth ball. It’s tangy, stretchy, and pairs perfectly with grilled tilapia, usually seasoned and roasted whole.
The real magic is in the pepper sauce—freshly ground chili, onions, tomatoes, and spices.
📍Best enjoyed at lakeside spots like Labadi Beach or Cape Coast fishing bays.
4. Waakye 🍚🌿
A favorite Ghanaian breakfast or brunch, Waakye is a rice-and-bean combo often cooked with dried millet leaves for a brownish color.
It’s usually served with a generous mix of:
- Shito (black pepper sauce)
- Spaghetti (gari optional)
- Boiled egg
- Fried plantain
- Meat or fish
Waakye is more than a dish—it’s a flavor festival on a plate.
📸 See Beautiful Waakye Platters on Pinterest
5. Kenkey and Fried Fish 🐠
Originating from the Ga and Fante people, Kenkey is a fermented corn dough wrapped in dried corn husks and boiled.
It’s usually eaten with:
- Fried fish
- Fresh pepper sauce (grind-it-yourself style)
- Shito (black sauce)
- Sometimes, tomatoes and onions on the side
👉 A favorite street food in Accra and Cape Coast.
6. Tuo Zaafi (TZ) 🍲
Popular in northern Ghana, Tuo Zaafi is a soft cornmeal dish similar to polenta, often served with green leaf soup (ayoyo) and meat or fish stew.
It’s high in energy, light on oil, and full of herbal goodness.
Tuo Zaafi is particularly loved by health-conscious locals and often comes with dawadawa (fermented locust beans) for extra flavor.
📖 Explore Ghanaian Dishes by Region
7. Kelewele 🍌🌶️
No Ghana food list is complete without this sweet-spicy snack. Kelewele is spiced fried plantain—usually marinated with:
- Ginger
- Garlic
- Chili
- Salt
It’s sold on street corners in the evening and is best paired with roasted peanuts or served as a side with rice.
Bonus: Try These Too!
If you’re adventurous, don’t miss:
- Omo Tuo (rice balls with groundnut soup)
- Red Red (beans stew with gari and fried plantains)
- Etɔ (mashed yam or plantain, often eaten during birthdays or rituals)
Pro Tips for Tourists Trying Ghanaian Food
- Ask locals for trusted chop bar spots
- Go easy on the spice—many dishes are very hot!
- Eat with your hand (right hand only) to fully immerse yourself
- Always try dishes with traditional accompaniments (shito, pepper, etc.)
Food is one of the easiest and most fulfilling ways to connect with Ghanaian culture. These dishes carry centuries of tradition, history, and emotion. They’re cooked with intention and eaten with joy.
If you’re planning a visit to Ghana, make sure you don’t leave without tasting at least five of these national treasures!