Africa is a continent of diverse cultures, languages, and cuisines. Each region has its own distinctive flavors and ingredients that reflect its history, geography, and traditions. One of the ways to experience the richness and variety of African food is through its condiments. Condiments are sauces, spices, or seasonings that are added to food to enhance its taste, texture, or appearance. They can range from mild to spicy, sweet to sour, creamy to crunchy, and everything in between.
If you are an African living in the US or Canada, you might miss the familiar tastes of home and want to recreate some of your favorite dishes. Or if you are a food lover who enjoys exploring new cuisines, you might be curious about the different types of African condiments and how to use them in your cooking. Either way, this blog post is for you. I will introduce you to some of the most popular and authentic African condiments that you can find in the US and Canada, especially those that originate from Western Africa. I will also give you some tips on where to buy them, how to store them, and how to pair them with different foods.
Let's get started!
Shito
Shito is a spicy sauce made from dried fish, shrimp, chili peppers, tomatoes, garlic, ginger, and oil. It is a staple condiment in Ghana, where it is used to flavor rice, yam, plantain, kenkey, banku, and other dishes. Shito has a dark brown color and a thick consistency. It can be very hot, so use it sparingly if you are not used to spicy food. Shito can be bought in African grocery stores, online shops, or you can make your own at home. To store shito, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a month.
Suya Spice
Suya spice is a dry rub made from roasted peanuts, chili peppers, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, ginger, salt, and other spices. It is used to season grilled meat, especially beef, chicken, and lamb. Suya spice is a signature condiment in Nigeria, where it is sold by street vendors who grill meat on skewers over charcoal. Suya spice has a nutty, smoky, and spicy flavor that adds a lot of depth and aroma to meat. Suya spice can be found in African grocery stores, online shops, or you can make your own at home. To store suya spice, keep it in an airtight container in a cool and dry place for up to six months.
Egusi
Egusi is a type of melon seed that is ground into a powder and used to thicken soups and stews. It is a common ingredient in many West African countries, such as Nigeria, Ghana, Mali, Senegal, and Cameroon. Egusi has a mild and nutty flavor that adds body and richness to dishes. Egusi is often combined with other ingredients, such as palm oil, tomatoes, onions, spinach, okra, meat, or fish, to make delicious and hearty soups and stews. Egusi can be purchased in African grocery stores, online shops, or you can grind your own at home. To store egusi, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer for up to a year.
Palm oil
A red-orange oil extracted from the fruit of the oil palm tree. It is a common cooking oil in many West and Central African countries, such as Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, and Congo. Palm oil has a distinctive flavor and color that adds richness and depth to dishes. It is often used to fry plantains, yams, or fish, or to make soups and stews.
Peanut butter
A paste made from roasted and ground peanuts. It is a popular ingredient in many African cuisines, especially in Senegal, Mali, Gambia, and Sudan. Peanut butter is used to make sauces, soups, dips, and desserts. It adds a nutty, creamy, and sweet flavor to dishes. You can use any kind of peanut butter, but natural and unsweetened ones are preferred.
Iru or Dawadawa
This is a condiment made from the fermented seeds of the African locust bean tree (Parkia biglobosa), which grows in the savanna regions of West Africa. It is widely used in the cuisines of Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, Mali, and other countries. It has a strong umami flavor and a distinctive aroma that adds depth and richness to soups, stews, and sauces³. It is also a source of protein and essential amino acids.
Ogiri
This is a traditional Nigerian condiment produced by fermenting either castor oil seeds (Ricinus communis) or melon seeds (Citrullus lanatus). It has an intense, earthy aroma and a pungent, cheesy flavor that enhances the taste of soups and sauces. It is especially popular in the Igbo and Yoruba cuisines, where it is used to season dishes such as egusi soup, ogbono soup, and efo riro.
Ugba
This is a condiment made from the fermented seeds of the African oil bean tree (Pentaclethra macrophylla), which is native to the tropical rainforest of West Africa. It has a chewy texture and a slightly sour taste that adds a distinctive element to the culinary landscape. It is commonly used in salads and traditional Igbo dishes, such as abacha (African salad), ugba na okporoko (oil bean and stockfish), and ukwa (breadfruit).
Palmnut Cream
This is a creamy condiment extracted from the boiled and pounded fruits of the oil palm tree (Elaeis guineensis), which is widely cultivated in West Africa. It has a rich, nutty flavor and a smooth, velvety consistency that adds body and creaminess to soups and stews. It is a fundamental component in West African cooking, especially in dishes such as banga soup, groundnut soup, and palm butter soup.
Hot Sauce
This is a fiery condiment made from a blend of hot peppers, vinegar, and spices, such as garlic, ginger, onion, and salt. It is a versatile addition to many African cuisines, delivering a bold and spicy kick to meats, stews, and even street foods, such as suya, kebabs, and akara. Its popularity lies in the ability to customize the heat level according to personal preference, by using different types and amounts of peppers.
Uziza Seeds and Leaves
Uziza is a plant from the Piperaceae family, which includes black pepper and kava. Both its seeds and leaves are used as a spice and a herb in West African cuisine, especially in Nigeria. They have a pungent, peppery flavor and a distinct aroma that add a unique spiciness to soups and stews, such as egusi soup, okra soup, and pepper soup. The seeds are usually ground for seasoning, while the leaves are either chopped or left whole to infuse flavor.
Cameroon Pepper
This is a fiery spice blend made from various hot peppers, such as bird's eye chili, Scotch bonnet, and habanero. It is a staple in Cameroonian cuisine, where it is used to elevate the heat quotient in dishes, such as ndole, eru, and koki. It can be used as a table condiment or integrated into recipes, depending on the desired level of spiciness. It has a zesty and bold flavor that complements the rich and diverse ingredients of Cameroonian cooking.
African Nutmeg (Ehuru)
This is a spice obtained from the seeds of the Monodora myristica tree, which is native to the tropical forests of West Africa. It is also known as ehuru, ariwo, or calabash nutmeg. It has a warm and aromatic flavor and a nutty essence that enhance the overall taste of soups and stews, such as pepper soup, oha soup, and white soup. It is commonly used in Nigerian and Cameroonian cuisines, where it is a key player in the spice palette.
Peri-Peri Sauce
This is a vibrant and spicy condiment originating from Southern Africa, especially Mozambique and South Africa. It is made from bird's eye chili peppers, also known as peri-peri, piri-piri, or African red devil peppers. It brings intense heat and flavor to grilled meats, vegetables, and marinades, such as peri-peri chicken, espetada, and chakalaka. Its versatility and bold taste have gained popularity beyond its place of origin, and it is now widely available in restaurants and supermarkets around the world.
Crayfish
This is a seafood-inspired condiment made from dried and ground crayfish, which are small freshwater crustaceans. It adds a savory depth and a distinctive flavor to soups and stews, such as egusi soup, edikang ikong, and afang. It is widely used in West African cuisine, especially in Nigeria, where it is considered a delicacy and a source of protein.
Banga Spice
This is a blend of spices used in preparing the palm fruit-based banga soup, which is a popular dish in Nigeria and Ghana. It is a flavorful combination of aromatic ingredients, such as ehuru, uziza, aidan fruit, iru, and salt. It imparts a rich and savory taste, complementing the nutty undertones of palm fruit, creating a harmonious flavor balance.
Alligator Pepper (Atariko)
This is a spice derived from the seeds of the Aframomum melegueta plant, which is a member of the ginger family. It is also known as atariko, grains of paradise, or Guinea pepper. It is known for its pungency and its peppery warmth, which add depth and complexity to the flavor profile of dishes, such as pepper soup, jollof rice, and suya. It is often chewed or incorporated into spice blends, such as suya spice and Cameroon pepper.
Jollof Rice Seasoning
This is a mix of tomatoes, peppers, onions, and spices, such as curry powder, thyme, bay leaf, and salt. It is an essential blend for one of West Africa's most beloved dishes, jollof rice, which is a one-pot rice dish cooked in a tomato-based sauce. It infuses the iconic jollof rice with a savory and aromatic character, contributing to its distinct taste and color.
Maggi (Seasoning Cubes)
These are cubes rich in umami flavor, made from salt, sugar, monosodium glutamate, vegetable oil, and spices. They are a ubiquitous seasoning in West African kitchens, used to enhance the taste of various dishes, such as soups, stews, and sauces. They are a convenient way to add depth and savory notes to dishes, as well as to adjust the saltiness.
Where to Find African Condiments in the US and Canada
1. Specialty Grocery Stores:
One of the best places to start looking for African condiments is your local specialty grocery store or market. These stores usually have a section for international foods, where you can find all kinds of spices, sauces, and condiments from different regions of the world.
2. African Grocery Stores:
Another great place to find African condiments is an African grocery store. These stores specialise in importing products directly from Africa, so you can be sure that you're getting the real deal. One of the best African grocery stores in the US and Canada is My Sasun African Market, an online store that provides a wide range of African groceries to customers in the diaspora. My Sasun enables customers to access African ingredients and food items conveniently from their homes, and delivers the highest quality African goods directly to their doorstep. Whether you are looking for Nigerian food, Ghanaian food, or any other African cuisine, My Sasun has it all. You can browse their collections and order online at mysasun.com.
3. Farmers' Markets:
You might not think of farmers' markets as a place to find African condiments, but you'd be surprised by what you can find there. Some farmers and vendors sell exotic spices and sauces that you can use to spice up your dishes.
4. Ethnic Food Festivals:
One of the most fun and exciting ways to find African condiments is to attend ethnic food festivals and cultural events in your city. There, you can sample and buy unique condiments from different vendors who showcase and sell their products.
Rounding Off
African condiments are a great way to add flavor, color, and texture to your food, and to experience the diversity and richness of African cuisine. By using these authentic condiments in your cooking, you'll not only make your dishes more delicious but also embark on a flavorful journey that connects you to your homeland. Finding African condiments, especially those unique to Western Africa, in the US and Canada is not as hard as you might think. You just need to know where to look and what to look for and you know what? My Sasun African Market is the best place to start! So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and start shopping and cooking today!
Comments (42)
Hello everyone, I am Robia Hayes from Texas, USA. I want to share a testimony of how Dr. Harry’s herbal mixture cream saves me from shame and disgrace, my penis was a big problem to me as the size was really so embarrassing,and I was also having a weak erection problem. I can make love to my wife and my penis was just too small. A full grown man like me has a 4 inches penis and to worsen it i don’t last in sex i cant even last two minutes. It was really a thing of shame to me. My wife was really tired of me because my sex life was very poor,she never enjoyed sex,I was always thinking and searching for solutions everywhere until I saw a testimony of Dr. Harry. herbal mixture cream has been helping people regarding their sex life, so i decided to give him a try and visited his website https://drharrysolutionhea.wixsite.com/healinghome and to my greatest surprise in less than two weeks of taking the herbs my penis grew to 8 inches. I couldn’t believe my eyes and as i speak now my penis is now 11 inches and i do not have a weak erection again. I can make love to my wife longer in bed. And my marriage is now stable,my wife now enjoys me very well in bed. EX LOVER BACK/BOYFRIEND/HUSBAND/WIFE/GIRLFRIEND PREMATURE EJACULATION LOW SPERM COUNT ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION HIV/AIDS CURE HERPES CURE INFECTION CURE PILE STROKE HEART FAILURE CANCER
You can contact him drharrysolution@gmail.com website https://drharrysolutionhea.wixsite.com/healinghome you can contact him today through his whatsapp or call +2349036417079
My name is Mavis Wanczyk, from Chicopee, Massachusetts. I’m excited to share my fantastic experience with Dr. Kachi, who is outstanding at lottery spell casting online. No matter where you are or how challenging your situation might be, Dr. Kachi can help you win in lotteries and other gambling games. If you’ve been searching for winning numbers without success, Dr. Kachi’s spells are known for providing the right numbers and lucky letters. Many have become millionaires after just one game using his powerful spells. I contacted Dr. Kachi shared the necessary details, and he provided me with six Powerball numbers: 6, 7, 16, 23 26, plus the Powerball number 4. I played them and won $758.7 Million! My life has changed dramatically, and I am incredibly thankful to Dr. Kachi. If you’re interested, you can reach Dr. Kachi by text or call at +1 (209) 893-8075 email him at drkachispellcast@gmail.com or visit his website here https://drkachispellcaster.wixsite.com/my-site Thank you so much, Dr. Kachi.
I was told there is No Herpes Cure except treatment to control it. I totally lost hope all i could think was loosing my life because it was so embarrassing to have this virus. A few weeks ago I read about a possible natural cure which was 100 percent guaranteed. And I ordered the treatment from Dr Uma. And I also told him about my sister’s cancer, After some weeks we got 100% cured. Now I’m so excited to share this testimony to every article for others living with HERPES, CANCER, PENIS ENLARGEMENT, HPV,HIV, etc. there is possible natural treatment to eliminate this virus. Email him for more info! Dr.umaherbalcenter@gmail.com or message him on WhatsApp +2347035619585.
Hello everyone, I wish to share my testimonies with the general public about Dr Kachi for helping me to win the LOTTO MAX, i have been playing all types of lottery for the past 9years now. the only big money i have ever win was $3000 ever since things became worse to enduring because i couldn’t been able to win again, i was not happy i need help to win the lottery, until the day i was reading a newspaper online which so many people has talked good things about best lottery cast Dr Kachi who can change your life into riches. So I contacted him and he cast the spell and gave me the hot figures. I played the LOTTO MAX DRAW Behold when I went to check and to my greatest surprise my name came out as one of the winners. I won $60 Millions Dr Kachi, your spell made it wonderful to win the lottery. I can’t believe it. Thank you so much sir for dedicating your time to cast the Lottery spell for me. I am eternally grateful for the lottery spell winning Dr Kachi did for me. I’m now out of debts and experiencing the most amazing good life of the lottery after I won a huge amount of money. I am more excited now than I ever have been in my life. In case you also need him to help you win, you can contact: drkachispellcast@gmail.com OR Call/Text number: +1 (209) 893-8075 Visit his Website: https://drkachispellcaster.wixsite.com/my-site
This is my testimony on how I finally joined the new world order, Illuminati after I have been trying to join for over 2 years now but scammers took money from me several times. I have been searching to join the Illuminati for so long, but scammers keep taking my money until early this year when I meet with Lord Felix online I contacted him and I explained everything to him and he recommended the registration used and I paid for the big member to get me started and I was initiated into the World Order online and I receive the sum of $1,000,000 us dollars in to my bank account instantly after my online initiation ritual and also I will be earning $33,000 us dollars monthly, I’m very happy! And promise to spread the good work of Lord Felix. If you are interested in joining the new world order Illuminati today, contact Lord Felix today instead of accepting scammers to take your money all in the name of helping you join, Contact Lord Felix Via email illuminatiofficial565@gmail.com or WhatsApp +447918641801.
I can’t believe this is really true I never believed there is a cure to this Herpes because all the hospital have told me there is no cure to it, few months ago I saw this post about a certain doctor called DR. Ikpoko on internet from a testimony shared by someone who he helped with his herbal cure I contacted his email and ask for his help also, that is how he informed me about the cure process and he sent me a herbal medicine which I took according to the way he instructed for 3 week I can’t believe when I got to the hospital for test my result came out negative. I am so happy to share this to the world that there is a real cure to herpes. You can also contact DR Ikpoko on YouTube through his official website on https://drikpoko.wixsite.com/herbs or through his email on drikpoko@gmail.com . He also have herbs medicine to cure the following diseases;Diabetes, Lupus, HPV,HSV 1 & HSV 2 Gout, Hepatitis A,B, Infertility, HIV/AIDS, and Vitiligo
Whatsapp: +2348108298045
website: https://drikpoko.wixsite.com/herbs
I want to share this great testimony to the world on how Dr Osato cured me from Herpes2 with his herbs, I was nervous when I first contacted him about the cure for HSV2 but I decided to give him a try because I was desperate to get cured and be free from HSV2. Dr Osato prepared the cure and sent it to me through UPS,which I used just the way Dr Osato instructed me and thank God today I am a beneficiary of this cure. I went back to the hospital after 14days of taking the herbs and I tested Herpes2 Negative. So I will tell you all who are looking for a cure to his/her HSV1&2 that Dr Osato took research before he could finally get the solution to it and a lot of people are benefiting from him right now. He also cured my friend from HPV. Dr Osato heals with natural herbs. Please i urge you to contact him now through his email: osatoherbalcure@gmail.com or call and WhatsApp him on +2347051705853. His website is http://osatoherbalcure.wordpress.com and he is capable of curing HIV/AIDS, HERPES, HPV, HSV1&2, CANCER of all kinds and so many other infections.
HERBALIST IKPOKO QUICK CURE FOR STDS AND OTHER INFECTIONS OR DISEASES . HIS WEBSITE : https://drikpoko.wixsite.com/herbs
Bringing antiviral foods into your diet is an important part of healing from any herpes virus. All fruits and vegetables are antiviral. For that reason, try filling your diet with as many fresh fruits and veggies as you can! Many herbs and spices can provide antiviral support as well. As you enjoy these foods, you can be at peace knowing that none of the herpes viruses are being fed or strengthened by these life-giving foods. Get More enlightened on Doctor Ikpoko Website : These foods can be incredibly supportive when regularly included in your diet, i was a carrier of herpes 2 for over 15 Months, But i Thank Herbalist IKPOKO for enlightening me and also helping me Permanently Get rid of My herpes Virus. May God Grant you the strength to keep Helping lives with your Herbal Medicine And Wisdom. Contact Dr Ikpoko on YouTube via Whatsapp : +2348108298045 On his email : drikpoko@gmail.com website: https://drikpoko.wixsite.com/herbs
i want to tell the world about the great and mighty spell caster called PRIEST ZION my husband was cheating on me and no longer committed to me and our kids when i asked him what the problem was he told me he has fell out of love for me and wanted a divorce i was so heart broken i cried all day and night but he left home i was looking for something online when i saw an article how the great and powerful PRIEST ZION have helped so many in similar situation like mine so i inboxed him telling him about my problem he told me he shall return back to me within 24hrs i did everything he asked me to do, the next day to my greatest surprise my husband came back home and was crying and begging for me to forgive and accept him back he can also help you contact him on his WhatsApp. +2349129421831
Email. leading.light.solution1@gmail.com
Read more on his Website:
https://leadinglightsoluti.wixsite.com/my-site-1………….
i want to tell the world about the great and mighty spell caster called PRIEST ZION my husband was cheating on me and no longer committed to me and our kids when i asked him what the problem was he told me he has fell out of love for me and wanted a divorce i was so heart broken i cried all day and night but he left home i was looking for something online when i saw an article how the great and powerful PRIEST ZION have helped so many in similar situation like mine so i inboxed him telling him about my problem he told me he shall return back to me within 24hrs i did everything he asked me to do, the next day to my greatest surprise my husband came back home and was crying and begging for me to forgive and accept him back he can also help you contact him on his WhatsApp. +2349129421831
Email. leading.light.solution1@gmail.com
Read more on his Website:
https://leadinglightsoluti.wixsite.com/my-site-1