African Ingredients
Explore the diverse and flavorful ingredients that make African cuisine unique and delicious.
Find Ingredients
Search for specific African ingredients and learn how to use them
Ingredient Categories
Staples & Grains
The foundation of African cuisine, providing sustenance and energy.
Fufu
West Africa
Dough-like food made from cassava, plantains, or yams
Teff
Ethiopia
Tiny grain used to make injera bread
Couscous
North Africa
Tiny steamed balls of semolina flour
Fonio
West Africa
Ancient grain with a nutty flavor
Sorghum
East Africa
Drought-resistant grain used in porridges and breads
Vegetables & Tubers
Versatile ingredients that form the base of many African dishes.
Cassava
Pan-African
Starchy root vegetable used in many forms
Okra
West Africa
Pod vegetable used as a thickener in stews
Amaranth Greens
East Africa
Leafy vegetable rich in nutrients
Sweet Potatoes
Pan-African
Orange or white tubers used in various dishes
Plantains
West/Central Africa
Starchy banana variety often fried or boiled
Spices & Seasonings
The soul of African cuisine, providing distinctive flavors and aromas.
Berbere
Ethiopia
Spice blend with chili peppers, garlic, and warm spices
Ras el Hanout
North Africa
Complex spice blend with up to 30 ingredients
Grains of Paradise
West Africa
Peppery seed with citrus notes
Harissa
Tunisia
Hot chili pepper paste with garlic and spices
Suya Spice
Nigeria
Peanut-based spice mix used for grilled meats
Proteins
Essential ingredients that provide the main component of many dishes.
Dried Fish
Pan-African
Preserved fish used to flavor stews and sauces
Biltong
Southern Africa
Dried, cured meat similar to jerky
Black-eyed Peas
West Africa
Legume used in stews and fritters
Egusi Seeds
West Africa
Melon seeds used to thicken and flavor soups
Groundnuts
Pan-African
Peanuts used in stews, sauces, and snacks
Oils & Fats
Foundational ingredients that carry flavor and provide richness.
Palm Oil
West/Central Africa
Red oil with distinctive flavor
Shea Butter
West Africa
Used in cooking and as a skin moisturizer
Niter Kibbeh
Ethiopia
Spiced clarified butter
Coconut Oil
East African Coast
Oil extracted from coconut meat
Argan Oil
Morocco
Nutty oil used in cooking and cosmetics
Fruits & Nuts
Sweet and savory ingredients used in various dishes and snacks.
Baobab Fruit
Pan-African
Tart fruit with powdery pulp rich in vitamin C
Tamarind
East/North Africa
Sweet-sour fruit used in sauces and beverages
Kola Nuts
West Africa
Caffeine-containing nut used in beverages
Dates
North Africa
Sweet fruit often eaten during Ramadan
Moringa
East Africa
Nutrient-rich leaves and seeds
Seasonal Ingredients
Spring Ingredients
Discover what's fresh and in season during spring across different African regions.
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Summer Ingredients
Discover what's fresh and in season during summer across different African regions.
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Fall Ingredients
Discover what's fresh and in season during fall across different African regions.
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Winter Ingredients
Discover what's fresh and in season during winter across different African regions.
View Winter IngredientsCooking with African Ingredients
Sourcing Ingredients
Learn where to find authentic African ingredients locally or online, and how to select the best quality products.
Find IngredientsSubstitutions
Can't find a specific African ingredient? Discover suitable substitutes that will still give you authentic flavors.
Find SubstitutesPreparation Techniques
Master the techniques for preparing and cooking with traditional African ingredients.
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