A Taste of Accra: Exploring Local Dishes, Restaurants & Recipes

Introduction

Welcome to Accra, the vibrant capital city of Ghana! With its rich cultural heritage, Accra offers a diverse range of local dishes that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. From traditional stews to staple dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, Accra's cuisine is a true reflection of the country's history and traditions. In this guide, we will take you on a gastronomic journey through Accra, exploring the best local dishes, restaurants, and even sharing some authentic recipes for you to try at home.

Local Dishes

Accra is known for its flavorful and hearty dishes that are made with a variety of ingredients. Here are some must-try local dishes:

• Jollof Rice: Jollof Rice is a popular West African dish that is made with rice, tomatoes, onions, and a blend of spices. The dish is known for its vibrant red color and delicious flavor. It is often served with chicken, fish, or beef.
• Fufu with Light Soup: Fufu is a starchy dish made from pounded cassava and plantains. It is typically served with a light soup made with vegetables and meat. Fufu is a staple dish in Ghana and is often eaten with the hands.
• Banku with Okro Soup: Banku is another staple dish in Ghana, made from fermented corn and cassava. It is usually served with okro soup, which is made with okra, tomatoes, onions, and spices. The combination of the soft and doughy banku with the flavorful okro soup is a delight.
• Waakye: Waakye is a popular street food in Accra. It is made with rice and beans cooked together in a spicy tomato sauce. The dish is usually served with fried plantains, boiled eggs, and a variety of toppings such as fish or meat.
• Kelewele: Kelewele is a popular snack made from fried plantains that are seasoned with ginger, chili peppers, and spices. It is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Restaurants

Accra is home to a wide range of restaurants that offer both traditional Ghanaian cuisine and international dishes. Here are some restaurants you should check out:

1. Zion Thai Restaurant: Located in Labone, Zion Thai Restaurant offers a fusion of Thai and Ghanaian flavors. Their menu features dishes like Thai green curry with jollof rice and spicy grilled tilapia.
2. The Republic Bar & Grill: Situated in Osu, The Republic Bar & Grill is a popular hangout spot offering a mix of Ghanaian and international cuisine. Their menu includes dishes like banku with tilapia, burgers, and pizzas.
3. Chez Clarisse: Chez Clarisse is a hidden gem in Accra, offering delicious Ivorian dishes. They are known for their attieke (cassava couscous) with grilled fish and a variety of mouth-watering sauces.
4. Buka Restaurant: Buka Restaurant, located in East Legon, specializes in Nigerian cuisine. From jollof rice to egusi soup, they serve authentic Nigerian dishes that will satisfy any cravings.
5. Jade's Palace: If you're in the mood for Chinese cuisine, Jade's Palace in Labadi offers a wide range of dishes. Try their sweet and sour pork or Kung Pao chicken for a flavorful experience.

Recipes

Want to recreate the flavors of Accra in your own kitchen? Here are a few recipes to get you started:

Jollof Rice

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of rice
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1 teaspoon of thyme
• 1 teaspoon of curry powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Wash the rice thoroughly and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onions, tomatoes, and bell peppers and sauté until softened.
3. Add the garlic, paprika, thyme, and curry powder to the pot and stir well.
4. Stir in the rice, making sure it is well coated with the mixture.
5. Add water to the pot, covering the rice completely. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
7. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed.
8. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot with your choice of protein.

Kelewele

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe plantains
• 2 tablespoons of grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon of ground chili pepper
• 1 teaspoon of ground cloves
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Peel the plantains and cut them into bite-sized cubes.
2. In a bowl, mix the ginger, chili pepper, and ground cloves together.
3. Add the plantain cubes to the bowl and toss them in the spice mixture until evenly coated.
4. In a pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
5. Add the plantain cubes to the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove the plantain cubes from the oil and drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
7. Sprinkle with salt to taste and serve hot as a snack or side dish.

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