It is quite fascinating and interesting to know that some of our cultures are interconnected with other neighboring African countries, and food is a major part of culture. As culture varies from society to society there are similar elements that show that individuals are more connected than we might think. I'll be looking at some meals that have similar elements across West Africa.
1. JOLLOF RICE
Jollof rice is a meal that cut across many cultures and even the Americans want a piece of it. It originated from the ancient word Wolof or Jolof empire in Senegal, it means "one-pot". Since the 16th century it has moved across various places including Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Cameroon, Sierra Leone and Gambia. The recipies differ but the rice is usually boiled gently in tomato sauce made with peppers, onions and vegetables. It's constant in Nigerian restaurants, perties and even during the holiday.
2. FUFU
This meal is not as common as Jollof rice but is another staple food that cuts across many places in West Africa and even outside of Africa. It is made from pounded cassava. It is popular in the Central and West Africa and is also one of the main swallows in Ghana.
3. BANGA SOUP
It is also known as palm fruit soup and is another meal that cuts across some West African Countries like Ghana and Nigeria. The main indgredients is palm fruit gotten from the palm tree which grows in the tropical parts.
4. GROUNDNUT SOUP
According to the Sierra Leone people who speak Krio, Granat soup, is another meal popular to the people Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone made from grounded groundnut just like the name entails.
5. EGUSI SOUP
In Ghana it is known as agushi soup. It is another meal that cuts across some West African countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Benin and Togo. The soup is made with the seeds of the gourd family plant like squash and melon. It is cooked with protein and palm oil.
indigenuity is the difference
some of these make more sense now
cultures are allowed to be similar
amazing stuff
would have loved to know