Every part of Africa has its own unique food, from the spicy flavours of West Africa to the fragrant spices of North Africa. African cuisine reflects the continent’s history, traditions and geography. Africa has more than 50 countries and thousands of different ethnicities, so the food is extremely diverse.
Each country has its own tastes, ingredients and cooking methods. African food is a wonderful combination of flavours and textures that will make your mouth water.
If you love food and want to experience the different flavours of Africa, here are the countries that should be on your list of places to visit.
Algeria
Characterised by a wealth of land and sea produce, Algerian cuisine is a Mediterranean and North African cuisine based on Arabic, Amazigh, Turkish and French cuisine. It offers a variety of dishes depending on the region and the season, which gives a very diverse culinary palette.
Spices play a leading role in Algerian cuisine. The most popular Algerian dishes are couscous, tagine, marouzia, dolma, harira or soup (gari), hamis, chakhchoukha, koussara, mahajib, garantita, bourak, rashta.
Morocco
Moroccan cuisine is a fusion of Arabic, Berber and French cultures, resulting in a unique culinary experience. Thanks to spices such as cumin and coriander, the flavours are deep and unique.
One of the most popular dishes is tagine, a slow-cooked stew with meat or vegetables and a mixture of spices and preserved lemons.
Couscous is another well-known dish from Morocco. It is a grain dish usually served with meat, vegetables and a savoury sauce.
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Egypt
Egyptian food is a real treat and reflects its history and culture, from the famous falafel to savoury koshary.
Falafel, garlic, lemon juice and spices are used to make fava beans, a savoury soup that is one of the most popular dishes. Kibbeh, a grilled meat kebab often served with rice or bread, is another must-try dish.
South Africa
South Africa has a lot of different cultures, so its food is an amalgamation of different tastes. There is a unique blend of flavours in the country’s food as it is influenced by African, Dutch and Indian cuisines.
Another dish you must try is one of the most popular dishes is bobotie, a delicious baked dish made with minced meat, spices, and egg toppings. Boerewors is a traditional South African sausage that is grilled and served with chakalaka, a spicy vegetarian relish.
Tunisia
Tunisian food is a delicious blend of flavours from the Mediterranean and North Africa. Tunisian food is a real treat due to its delicious spices and strong, spicy flavours.
Couscous, a dish made from grains and often served with savoury meat or vegetables, is one of the most popular foods. Brik is another dish you must try. It is a fried pastry stuffed with different things such as eggs, tuna and harissa, a chilli paste.