21 Traditional Cameroonian Foods to Feed your Soul

The Cameroon Collection

So here are 21 foods from my home country that you just have to try. It will give you a feel of Cameroon cuisine if you are new to it. The flavors are enticing, rich, and oh so comforting. I would happily gobble it down every day of the week. And the snacks! Oh boy! Give me some puff puff, meat pies, or suya, and you will win me over.

1. Ndole

At the top of my list of favorite Cameroonian foods is Ndole. Oh yes! And it’s rumored to be the unofficial Cameroon national dish.

2. Poulet DG

Forget about le Directeur Général (the boss). Anyone can make this elitist chicken dish. It’s now available in every restaurant in Cameroon and can be enjoyed by ANYONE, ANYWHERE.

3. Ekwang

It might be tedious to make, but it sure is worth the effort. Magic happens when grated cocoyams are cooked with cocoyam leaves and dried fish, crayfish, and palm oil (NOT the controversial palm oil). I dare you to resist going back for more.

4. Achu Soup

This gloriously yellow soup is quite controversial, not for arguing about, but it’s a delicate soup that can go wrong if not done right. However, I give you the right technique to get in and get going in less than no time.

5. Sese Plantains

Aka turning plantains is a lifesaver in my home. Everyone loves them, and they’re so easy to put together.

6. Accra Cassava

Nothing is better than a two-ingredient recipe, right? These banana fritters come together quickly with store-bought grated cassava. I also love whole wheat accra banana for a healthier twist.

7. Hot Pot Potatoes

Add this beauty to your weeknight menu. With a few ingredients, you can have dinner ready in less than no time. And it’s all cooked in one pot for even easier cleanup.

8. Jollof Rice (Jellof Rice)

Forget about the Jollof rice wars. Head over to the kitchen and make this easy Cameroonian version (or Nigerian). Let the haters fight while you enjoy either my version or baked jollof rice.

9. Kati Kati

Brace yourself because you’re going to forget all your manners when you dive into this chicken. And if you eat the bones too, no worries, I don’t judge.

10. Cabbage Egusi Soup

This egusi soup features a healthy upgrade with cabbage without losing flavor for guilt-free comfort food. If you can’t find egusi, simply grind up some pumpkin seeds, and you’re good to go.

11. Meat Pies

Who can say no to these flaky pastries filled with minced beef, onions, and aromatics? They’ll disappear before you know it, so make a double batch to make sure you have enough to go around.

12. Koki Corn

Who says African food can’t be healthy? This koki corn is vegan, healthy, and loaded with spinach. If you want to up your plant-based game, this recipe is the perfect place to start.

13. Mbongo Tchobi

Get your plantains ready and put aside all preconceptions about this black soup. The flavors all blend together, and you’ll forget about the looks once you dig in.

14. Kwacoco Bible

Grated cocoyams, fish, and crayfish wrapped in plantain leaves, then steamed until cooked through, are a healthy and satisfying treat. It will take you to the heart of the Bakweri tribe.

15. Groundnut Sweet

You will go NUTS for these nuts. A must-try street food that has the right crunch, sweetness, and nuttiness. I dare you to try to stop after one.

16. Chicken Stew

Everyone needs a good stew in their repertoire, especially for Christmas. When cold weather comes around, you’ve got this. It definitely doesn’t disappoint.

17. Pepper Sauce

There are as many different pepper sauces in Cameroon as there are cooks. But one thing is the same: we put it on EVERYTHING. And if you want a traditional West African meal, pepper sauce needs to be on the table.

18. Kondres

Don’t let the ingredient list fool you―this one-pot plantain wonder is quick to put together and leaves your taste buds wanting more.

19. Eru Soup

Serve this meaty greens soup when you’re set for this taste bud sensation. All you need is water fufu to complete the meal.

20. Condensed Milk Cake

While not a traditional Cameroon recipe, it has become quite popular and is definitely a must-try. It’s indulgent, quick, and easy.

21. Fish Rolls

If you make these, please send some my way. Can’t seem to have enough of these; they’re soooo addictive. Delightfully crispy on the outside and soft and meaty on the inside.

By Imma, published for the first time on May 4, 2017, and updated with gorgeous photos.