Yams are such delicious tubers that can be enjoyed in countless ways all across Africa. These starchy vegetables are a staple in many homes, particularly in West Africa, where they are most commonly grown and consumed. Yams have a slightly sweet, earthy taste, similar to a mix of potatoes and sweet potatoes. Like other tubers, they’re packed with nutrients, including carbohydrates for energy, fiber for digestion, and a variety of vitamins and minerals.
And the best part? You can get fresh yams and everything else you need to recreate delicious yam dishes from My Sasun African Market. With physical stores in Houston and Celina, TX, and delivery available across the US and Canada, we’re here to bring the taste of Africa straight to your doorstep.
Read more: DISCOVERING 10 FUFU (SWALLOW) VARIANTS IN AFRICA.
Let’s take a look at eight must-try African yam dishes that will make you fall in love with this humble root vegetable.
1. Pounded Yam (Nigeria, Ghana)
Pounded yam is one of the most popular yam dishes in Africa. Made by boiling yam pieces until soft and pounding them into a smooth, stretchy dough-like consistency, this dish is a favorite at both casual meals and big celebrations.
It’s traditionally served with soups like Egusi (melon seed soup), Vegetable Soup, or Groundnut Soup. The light flavor of pounded yam allows it to soak up the bold, spicy flavors of the soups it’s paired with. This dish is a delicacy at its finest, and while the traditional method involves a mortar and pestle, you can now use modern yam flour for a quicker version.
Also Read: Two Authentic Methods of Cooking Egusi Soup2. Yamarita
If you’re a fan of crispy, golden treats, Yamarita is the dish for you! This is a creative way to enjoy yams: slices of boiled yam are coated in a seasoned egg and flour batter, then deep-fried until they’re crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. Yamarita is perfect as a snack or appetizer, especially when served with a side of spicy pepper sauce or ketchup.
3. Kokonte (Ghana)
Kokonte is a dish made from yam flour mixed with hot water. The result is a smooth, stretchy swallow that’s often enjoyed with hearty soups like Palm Nut Soup or Light Soup. Kokonte has an earthy flavor that pairs well with rich, spicy sauces. It’s a filling and satisfying meal.
4. Boiled Yam and Fried Eggs (West Africa)
This is a simple yet satisfying yam dish in many West African households. Yam slices are peeled, boiled until tender, and served with a savory fried egg sauce made with onions, tomatoes, and peppers. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The combination of soft yam and the rich, flavorful egg sauce is always a winner.
5. Fried Yam and Fried Pepper Sauce (Nigeria)
Fried yam, known locally as Dundun, is a street food favorite in Nigeria. Yam slices are deep-fried until golden and crispy on the outside while remaining soft and fluffy on the inside.
Dundun is often served with a spicy fried pepper sauce made with tomatoes, Scotch bonnet peppers, and onions. It’s the perfect snack or side dish and is guaranteed to leave you craving more.
6. Mpotompoto (Yam Pottage, Ghana)
Mpotompoto, also called yam pottage, is a delicious one-pot meal made by simmering yam cubes in a flavorful tomato-based sauce with onions, peppers, and palm oil until fully mashed up. The dish is creamy, hearty, and often includes fish, meat, or vegetables for added richness. It’s a go-to meal for rainy days or when you need something warm and filling.
Read More: 15 Porridges and Puddings from the Heart of Africa7. Yam and Beans (Nigeria, Ghana)
Yam and beans is a classic West African dish that combines boiled yam with a deliciously stewed black-eyed peas or brown beans mixture. The beans are cooked with onions, tomatoes, palm oil, and spices. This usual results in a rich and savory sauce that pairs perfectly with the mild flavor of yam. This dish is nutritious, packed with protein, and an excellent choice for a wholesome meal that will keep you energized all day.
8. Yam and Goat Meat Pepper Soup (West Africa)
This is a flavorful dish that combines tender yam chunks with a spicy, aromatic goat meat pepper soup. The yam soaks up the broth’s intense flavors, resulting in a dish that’s both hearty and comforting. Perfect for cold days or when you need something to soothe your soul, yam and goat meat pepper soup is a favorite for special occasions or simply warming up after a long day.
Fresh Yams at My Sasun African Market
Ready to try these delicious yam dishes? You’ll find fresh, high-quality yams and all the ingredients you need at My Sasun African Market:
Physical Stores: Visit us in Houston or Celina, TX, to shop for all your African grocery needs.
Online Shopping: Can’t make it to the store? No problem! We deliver to all states in the US and Canada.
