Plantain Forever: 7 Ways Africans Eat Plantain Across Countries

If plantain had a fan club, Africans would be the presidents. Ripe, unripe, fried, boiled, roasted plantain doesn’t just sit in one corner of the kitchen; it shows up everywhere, always stealing the show. Let’s take a trip across Africa to see how different countries put their spin on this golden treasure.

Nigeria — Dodo (Fried Plantain)

Crispy edges, soft inside, and that perfect caramelized sweetness, dodo is Nigeria’s pride. Whether it’s next to jollof rice, beans, or eaten alone, dodo is the friend who never disappoints.

Ghana — Kelewele

Spicy fried plantain cubes tossed in ginger, chili, and a hint of cloves. Kelewele is street food at its finest, bold, fiery, and addictive. One bite and you’ll understand why Ghanaians guard this dish like treasure.

Cameroon — Achombo (Boiled Plantain & Sauce)

Here, unripe or semi-ripe plantains are boiled and paired with a rich tomato or vegetable sauce. It’s hearty, wholesome, and perfect for family gatherings.

Sierra Leone — Plantain Chips

Crispy, salty, and often sold in transparent nylon bags, plantain chips are Sierra Leone’s favorite snack-on-the-go. Perfect with a chilled drink or just when you need a quick crunch.

Congo — Makemba (Grilled Plantain)

Grilled ripe plantain, slightly charred on the outside, soft and sweet inside. Makemba is street food magic, its simple, smoky, and satisfying.

Kenya & East Africa — Matoke

Green plantains boiled and cooked down in a spiced sauce. Matoke is savory, filling, and often served with meat or beans. It’s a staple that proves plantain doesn’t need to be sweet to shine.

Across Africa — Plantain Fufu

From Nigeria to Ghana, plantain fufu is the soft swallow made by blending unripe or ripe plantains into flour. Paired with soup, it’s both healthy and filling, the plantain that holds its ground at the big boys’ table.

Final Bite

From Lagos to Nairobi, Accra to Kinshasa, plantain is the dish that keeps uniting Africa one plate at a time. Sweet, spicy, grilled, boiled, or mashed, it’s proof that some ingredients are simply forever.

Ready to bring Africa’s favorite to your table?

Shop Plantain at MamaJones African Market Today