One of the many things Africa can boast of is its vibrant street food scene. Hunger is hardly a concern when you’re out in public. There’s always something tasty and affordable to grab at a makeshift structure across the street or while in traffic.
Apart from the convenience, African street food is a true reflection of the continent’s diversity. Over 50 countries have their own variety of street food made and sold by locals. This makes you connect with the local culture.
Let’s take a look at some top African street foods by country.
1. Bunny Chow (South Africa)
They say you’re no true South African if you can go a month without eating Bunny Chow.
It’s a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with delicious Indian curry, chicken, beef, lamb, mutton, or vegetables. It’s the pride of the people of SA.
2. Ugali (East Africa)
A staple dish made from maize meal or cornmeal, often served with eggs, meat, or vegetables. Anything else is allowed. Some people call it other names like nshima, sadza, papa or phuthu.
3. Mozambican Prawns (Mozambique)
You may have tasted grilled or fried prawns, but I swear there’s more you can do with them! Mozambican folks found a way to spice it with peri-peri sauce, served with rice or French fries. A widely eaten street delicacy in the Southeastern African country. Worth trying.
4. Gatsby (South Africa)
A foot-long roll filled with chips, meat, cheese, fried eggs, and sauce, just the way the people of Cape Town where it originated love it. Since taste buds differ, any sauce of your choice is fine. The famous Gatsby is so in-demand that locals are sometimes seen queuing for it at food stalls. The last time I checked, it costs 54 rand (£2.60). Quite a reasonable price.
5. Shawarma (North Africa)
Despite originating from North Africa, its popularity has spread to street corners in various African regions. Shawarmas are prepared with marinated meat (usually lamb, turkey, or chicken), spit-roasted, sprinkled with cabbage and served in pita bread.
Some sharp guys know that a shawarma date is the best way to the heart of a love interest. 😉
6. Koshari (Egypt)
Another amazing street food from the North African region. This flavourful vegetarian snack features a mix of grains like rice, pasta, and legumes like chickpeas, topped with spicy tomato sauce. You feel a delightful mix of textures while munching on Koshari.
7. Akara (Nigeria)
Saturday mornings are incomplete in most Nigerian households without a search for Akara sellers on roadsides. It’s a tradition most Nigerians can relate to. Akara is a deep-fried bean cake made with ground beans, pepper, and onions. It’s best devoured with a soft loaf of bread or with pap.
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8. Mopani Worms (Zimbabwe)
No, don’t eww if you haven’t experienced the tasty goodness of mopani worms, native to Southern Africa. After they are handpicked in bushes, they are fried and often served with tomatoes and onions. Super crunchy! It’s a rich source of protein, essential amino acids, and minerals such as iron and zinc.
9. Vetkoek (South Africa)
Fried dough balls served with polony, cheese, or both. Best eaten hot.
10. Suya (Nigeria)
Suya is probably the most popular street food in Nigeria. I don’t know anyone who makes Suya at home. This beloved Nigerian street food consists of thinly sliced beef strips coated in a spicy peanut sauce and grilled to perfection over hot coals.
It originated from the Fulani and Hausa people of northern Nigeria but has become a nationwide sensation.
Traditionally, the local vendors, called “Mallams”, sell suya at night, enticing customers with its irresistible aroma and flavour.
11. Chikanda (Zambia)
If you’ve not had Chikanda, are you truly Zambian? This special food is a deep-fried ball made from ground peanuts, cassava leaves, and spices, offering a crispy exterior and a soft, flavourful interior.
12. Ndizi (Tanzania)
For those who like spicy food, ndizi nyama is a great option. It’s made with meat, bananas, and a flavorful sauce containing chili peppers and spices. This delicious meal showcases Tanzania’s rich culinary culture. It’s one of the most praised dishes by tourists visiting East Africa.
13. Kosua Ne Meko (Ghana)
Ghanaians can’t get enough of eggs, making Kosua ne meko a beloved street food. It’s a hard-boiled egg split slightly down the middle and stuffed with spicy pepper sauce.
It’s a known fact in Ghana that when you start with one, you buy two, then three. This is why, earlier this month, when a restaurant in Accra put up the price of Kosua ne meko at 50ghc, netizens were visibly angry, questioning if the pepper in it was blended with ancestral blessings. Some expressed fear that street vendors might adopt such outrageous prices, showing how seriously the people take their street food.
Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to try something new, African street food is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
