North African Cuisine has Middle Eastern influences. East Africa has Indian and Asian influences. And South Africa has European influences. West African cuisine, on the other hand, has very few outside influences. With only minor influences from South American cuisine, West African food is highly authentic.

With its unique flavours and authentic taste, our food has its own story to tell. Here are some secrets about West African food that you may not already know.

FRESH AND NATURAL INGREDIENTS

Traditionally, all West African meals are made using fresh ingredients that are directly from the farm. These organic ingredients are allowed to mature naturally, giving them a fresh taste. When these ingredients are combined, the flavours come alive in flavourful, wholesome dishes.

FOOD DIVERSITY

Nigeria is a multicultural nation with three major tribes: Yoruba, Ibo and Hausa. Throughout the country, many unique cultures and languages are represented. This diversity can also be seen in the country’s wide range of food and cooking styles, with every group maintaining their own traditions and flavours.This keeps things interesting when traveling to different parts of the country – or when trying new recipes in the kitchen.

COOKING ON OPEN FIRE

Traditionally, food is cooked with an open flame over hot coals or firewood. This dramatically changes the taste of traditionally prepared food. Now, due to modernization, most people in urban areas cook using electric cookers, with no need for firewood. However, in rural areas, this traditional method of cooking remains a sensible and common practice. Outside of the city, you’ll still find many open fires burning in preparation for a delicious, traditional meal.

CALABASH AND CLAY DISHES

In the past, meals were served using calabash or clay dishes. The dishes were designed to encourage sharing. They were large and deep, allowing family members to eat from the same dish. Today, although the purpose of the dishes remains the same, more people prefer to use glass dishes.

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