If you follow this blog, you’ll know we often write about Sierra Leonean cuisine. Many first time visitors arrive in our country knowing little or nothing about our local dishes, and about West African cuisine as a whole, but end up leaving pleasantly surprised.Sierra Leone has a rich and diverse culinary landscape that reflects its cultural heritage and geographical location. Our cuisine includes tasty rice dishes, delectable seafood and vibrant stews – let’s discover 5 Sierra Leone delicacies that you must try!
5 Must Try Dishes in Sierra Leone
1. Cassava Leaf Soup
Cassava Leaf Soup is not actually a soup but more of a stew, and it’s a resourceful way of utilizing the leaf part of the cassava root. The stew is made with finely chopped cassava leaves cooked with onions, peppers, palm oil, and assorted spices – meat or fish are also added sometimes. The result is a thick and hearty soup often paired with rice or fufu, a starchy dish made with pounded cassava.
2. Grilled Fish with Attieke
This dish is traditionally from Ivory Coast, but it can also be found in Sierra Leone. Freshly-caught fish marinated in a blend of spices and grilled on the coals is a staple in coastal Sierra Leone, and it’s delicious when paired with attieke, an Ivorian side dish made from fermented cassava. Definitely a delicacy you should try!
3. Pepper Soup
Pepper Soup is not only one of the most beloved dishes found all over West Africa, it’s also believed to have medicinal properties! It’s a spicy and aromatic broth infused with hot peppers, ginger, onion, and an array of spices, with the addition of meat, usually goat meat even though other types of meat are sometimes used. Pepper soup is often enjoyed in the cold season to relieve symptoms of cough and cold, and it also contributes to lowering blood pressure.
4. Fried Plantains
Fried Plantains are the most beloved snack in Sierra Leone, eaten on their own or as a side dish with rice and stews. Ripe plantains are sliced and fried until golden, with a caramelized exterior and tender interior. They’re sweet and savoury at the same time, and we promise you’ll love them!
5. Groundnut Stew
Groundnut Stew is made from groundnuts (the local name for peanuts), with the addition of tomatoes, onions, and spices, as well as meat, usually chicken or beef. The result is a robust and filling meal, simply delicious accompanied by rice and fried plantains!
