What I eat in Ghana

*This post talks about food and eating. These are sensitive topics for some so please be aware of this before reading.

One thing I love about Ghana is mealtimes. In my experience, it’s an occasion where family and friends come together and enjoy not only a delicious meal prepared with lots of love, but also each other’s company.

As is the case in many places around the world, in Ghana, food is a way to bring people together. I have a mum, cousin, Aunts and other special women in my life who are fabulous cooks and when they prepare a meal for me, it is with so much dedication, skill and enthusiasm.

To prepare Ghanaian dishes takes time. Preparation can begin in the morning, and even beforehand, to ensure there is food ready for lunchtime. The preparation and cooking time make the meal worth the wait, as all the flavours and spices have time to marinate.

I like to accompany my cousin to the markets to purchase the ingredients needed, because the colours and varieties of produce are captivating. Large silver bowls overflowing with bright red tomatos, odd shapes of ginger, grains, okra and peppers. It is also interesting to listen to the conversations taking place and engage in friendly exchanges with different women.

Left to right: enjoying mealtime with family; me and my cousin preparing Jollof Rice.

I also enjoy eating at chop bars. Local spots which offer favourites such as fufu and groundnut soup and banku and tilapia. The table setting includes bowls of water and hand soap as we use our right hands to eat most meals, which is a whole technique in itself.

After letting time pass to allow the food to digest, there’s nothing that quite hits the spot like everyone tucking into some sweet pineapple, mango and paw paw.

I think this paints a beautiful picture because for me, eating in this way becomes a mindful practice and a time that is cherished. There have been times in my life where I’ve felt full but not satisfied. I’ve eaten mindlessly. Sometimes rushed or distracted by a device or emotions. Whereas when I’ve shared mealtimes with loved ones, or eaten alone in a peaceful atmosphere, I’ve felt satisfied.

I am thankful for the organic fruits and vegetables of Ghana that provide nourishment and refreshment for the soul. It is beautiful to see the legacy of planting and harvesting on Ghana’s fertile soil continue through to the present generation.

This week, on the @adjoainghana Instagram, we asked those in the community to share what their favourite Ghanaian dishes were and here were the responses:

〰️ Omo tuo and Nkate nkwan (groundnut soup)

〰️ Kontomire stew, Redred, Waakye, Hot soup

〰️Jollof, with plantain on the side & grilled chicken

〰️Tuo Zaafi

And the list goes on!

Now it is your turn - what is your favourite meal from your home country? If you can, please share your answer with us in the comments section 😊.

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Keep in touch

Look out for this week’s weekly discussion thread if you want to chat further & follow the @adjoainghana Instagram for more food content and Ghana adventures.

If you would like to swap notes, thoughts or experiences, you are welcome to get in touch.

Thank you for reading!

If you enjoyed this week’s newsletter, please give it a like and consider leaving a comment sharing what your favourite meal is from your home country. We would love to hear from you 🧡.

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