African Foods from Côte d’Ivoire
An authentic and gourmet cuisine
A gastronomy influenced by African cultures and flavors
Ivorian cuisine reflects the country’s cultural diversity, influenced by the Akan, Mandé, Krou, and Gour peoples. Each region has its own specialties, but all share a love for generous dishes rich in spices and flavors.
The foundation of Ivorian cuisine relies on starchy foods like cassava, yam, rice, and plantain, paired with flavorful sauces made from fish, meat, or vegetables.
Iconic Dishes of Côte d’Ivoire
Garba is undoubtedly one of the country’s most popular dishes. Made with cassava semolina (attiéké) and fried tuna seasoned with chili and onions, this dish is enjoyed both on the streets and at home. Its unique taste and convenience make it a must-try.
Placali is another Ivorian specialty made from fermented cassava paste, served with rich sauces like sauce graine (made from palm nuts) or sauce kopè (made from okra). Its elastic, soft texture absorbs the flavors of the accompaniments perfectly.
Kedjenou is a chicken stew cooked slowly with tomatoes, onions, and spices, often prepared in a canari (clay pot). This slow cooking preserves the aromas and makes the meat incredibly tender.
Foutou, whether made from plantain or yam, is a smooth and soft paste served with various sauces like sauce claire (a light soup with fish or meat) or peanut sauce, creamy and fragrant.
Grilled Fish, seasoned with a blend of local spices and condiments, is another flagship dish. Often paired with attiéké and a spicy sauce, it offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Key Ingredients in Ivorian Cuisine
Attiéké, fermented cassava semolina, is one of the most consumed products in Côte d’Ivoire. Light and slightly tangy, it pairs well with grilled fish as well as spicy sauces.
Cassava, in the form of placali, foutou, or flour, is a central ingredient in daily meals. Its neutral taste allows it to complement a wide variety of dishes.
Palm oil is widely used in Ivorian cooking, especially in sauces like sauce graine or kedjenou. Its slightly smoky flavor adds unparalleled richness to dishes.
Chili is a must-have, adding heat to traditional dishes. It is often incorporated as a paste or powder to enhance flavors.
CRAVING A SNACK?
With products like Brick Sheets (Malsouka), ideal for preparing crispy delights, organic Dried Mangoes for a sweet and healthy touch, Tswefap Mix, a spicy assortment for thrill-seekers, and Spicy Titus Sardines in Vegetable Oil, perfect for adding intense flavor to your meals, our range of African snacks will satisfy all your gourmet cravings. We also offer a range of utensils to complete the African culinary experience,
Ivorian Products Available on Afritibi.com
Afritibi.com offers several iconic Ivorian products to recreate these authentic recipes at home. Among them, attiéké stands out, along with cassava flours ideal for preparing placali and foutou.
Red palm oil, an essential ingredient for Ivorian sauces, is also available, as well as local spices that bring traditional flavors to dishes. Dried and smoked fish, used to enrich sauces and stews, is another must-have product offered in the shop.
Powdered broths, widely used in Ivorian cooking, add depth to dishes and are also available on Afritibi.com.
Ivorian Drinks and Sweets
Among traditional drinks, bissap, made from hibiscus flowers, is particularly appreciated for its tangy and refreshing taste. Ginger juice, a spicy and energizing drink, is also consumed for its digestive benefits.
On the sweet side, klo klo, a sweet cornmeal fritter, is a popular snack, as are plantain beignets, soft and golden, often enjoyed with tea or coffee.
Tchapalo, a traditional beer made from fermented millet, is widely consumed in villages and during celebrations.
A Friendly and Flavorful Cuisine
Ivorian cuisine is above all a cuisine of sharing, where meals are enjoyed with family or friends, often around a large communal dish. The richness of its dishes and the variety of its ingredients make Ivorian gastronomy a true invitation to a culinary journey.
Thanks to the availability of many typical products on Afritibi.com, it’s now possible to prepare Ivorian specialties at home with authentic ingredients. Whether it’s a traditional dish like kedjenou or a quick snack like garba, Ivorian cuisine captivates with its simplicity and explosion of flavors.