How to Substitute African Ingredients When You Live Abroad
Craving that authentic taste of home but can’t find the ingredients you grew up with? You’re not alone. Many Africans living abroad struggle to recreate their favorite meals because some spices, vegetables, or local ingredients aren’t readily available. The good news is, with the right substitutes, you can still enjoy traditional flavors no matter where you are.
This guide explores how to substitute common African ingredients with easily accessible alternatives, so your cooking still tastes like home.
1. Palm Oil
Palm oil adds that deep red color and distinct flavor to many West African dishes. If you can’t find it locally, try red pepper oil or annatto oil for color and a mild earthy flavor. You can also mix vegetable oil with a small amount of smoked paprika to get a similar look and smoky hint.
2. Crayfish
Crayfish gives soups and stews that umami kick. When it’s not available, try dried shrimp powder or fish sauce in small amounts. Even a touch of anchovy paste can help mimic the same depth.
Shop African seafood and seasonings at Mama Jones to keep your meals bold and flavorful.
3. Ugwu (Pumpkin Leaves)
If you can’t find ugwu, you can use spinach, collard greens, or kale as close substitutes. They have a similar texture and can hold up well in soups like egusi or ogbono.
Order your frozen vegetables and greens from Mama Jones — they’re prepped and ready for your pot.
4. Scotch Bonnet Pepper
That fiery, fruity heat is hard to beat. But if scotch bonnet isn’t in season, try habanero peppers or Thai chili peppers. They offer similar spice levels with just a slightly different aroma.
Shop fresh and dried peppers at Mama Jones and keep your stews vibrant and spicy.
5. Stockfish and Dried Fish
Nothing beats the flavor of traditional stockfish in Nigerian soups. If you can’t get it, use salted cod, anchovies, or smoked mackerel. They’ll give you that same depth and savory profile.
Explore dried and smoked fish options on Mama Jones Store to elevate your dishes like at home.
6. Locust Beans (Iru, Dawadawa)
For that earthy, fermented flavor, try miso paste or fermented soybean paste as a substitute. It gives the same umami punch in dishes like efo riro or ogbono soup.
Order authentic locust beans and other condiments from Mama Jones to keep your recipes traditional.
7. Plantains
When ripe or unripe plantains aren’t available, green bananas or sweet potatoes can serve as alternatives. While they taste slightly different, they fry, boil, and roast just as well.
Shop plantains, yams, and African root crops at Mama Jones and enjoy the taste of home any day.
Bringing Home Closer to Your Kitchen
Cooking African meals abroad doesn’t mean losing authenticity. With these substitutes, you can keep your dishes flavorful, rich, and satisfying, just like home.
Shop authentic African groceries at Mama Jones Store for your favorite condiments, spices, proteins, and ready-to-cook essentials delivered anywhere in the US.