Food in Togo

Togo may not be the first destination that comes to mind when one thinks of a culinary adventure, but this small West African nation offers a vibrant tapestry of flavors and dishes that reflect its rich cultural heritage. Togolese cuisine is a delightful fusion of indigenous traditions, with a hint of French colonial influence, offering an array of hearty staples and exotic spices. Understanding the staples of Togolese food and the common ingredients that tie the dishes together can elevate the dining experience for any tourist exploring this dynamic country. Dive into the world of Togolese gastronomy to discover the local specialties you should not miss during your visit to Togo.

Togolese Dishes

Fufu

Fufu is a staple food across West Africa, and in Togo, it's commonly made from yams. These are boiled until soft, then pounded into a sticky and dough-like consistency. Fufu is typically served as an accompaniment to soups or stews, with diners pinching off a small ball of fufu and using it to scoop up the liquid dish.

Akume

Also known as Akoumé or Akple, this is another doughy staple similar to fufu but made from fermented corn and cassava dough. It has a sour taste and a smooth texture, often served with a spicy tomato sauce or a soup such as okra soup.

Riz Sauce

Riz Sauce is a simple yet flavorful dish consisting of rice served with a variety of sauces. The sauces can be tomato-based or made with groundnut (peanut) and often contain vegetables, fish, or meat, seasoned with local spices and herbs.

Ablo

Ablo is a type of savory steamed cornbread that's slightly sweet and yeasty. It's often served alongside grilled fish or meat and is popular as a street food as well as a home-cooked side dish.

Grilled Fish

Fish is a significant part of the Togolese diet, especially in coastal areas. Grilled fish in Togo is typically seasoned with spices such as ginger, garlic, and chili, then grilled over an open flame for a smoky flavor. It's often served with piment sauce, a hot pepper sauce, and sides like ablo or fried plantains.

Omo Tuo

Omo Tuo is a dish of rice balls served with a soup, often made from groundnuts. The rice is cooked until very soft, then pounded and shaped into balls. The accompanying soup is rich and can include meat, fish, or chicken.

Red Red

Red Red is a popular bean stew made with black-eyed peas and palm oil, which gives it a characteristic red color. It’s flavored with spices and often served with fried ripe plantains. The dish is both sweet and savory, making it a comforting and satisfying meal.

Gboma Dessi

This is a traditional spinach stew made with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and sometimes eggplant or other vegetables. It's typically served with meat or fish and eaten with fufu or rice.

Djenkoume

A dish made with tomato paste and corn flour, Djenkoume is often referred to as the Togolese polenta. It's usually flavored with onions and chili and served as an accompaniment to fish or meat dishes.

Koklo Meme

Translated as "grilled chicken," Koklo Meme is a favorite among Togolese. The chicken is marinated in spices and grilled to perfection. It’s often served with a hot sauce made from chili peppers or with sides like fried yams or plantains.

Togolese Desserts

Wagasi

Wagasi is a traditional cheese found in northern Togo, made from cow's milk. It's often fried and served as a snack or dessert, sometimes accompanied by a spicy dipping sauce.

Beignets

These are the Togolese version of doughnuts, made from flour, sugar, yeast, and nutmeg. They are deep-fried until golden brown and are a popular sweet treat throughout the country, often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea.

Bissap Juice

While not a dessert, Bissap Juice is a sweet drink that's a favorite in Togo, made from hibiscus flowers. The flowers are steeped in water, sweetened with sugar, and often flavored with mint or ginger. It's a refreshing end to any Togolese meal.

Chakery

Chakery is a dessert made from couscous or millet, mixed with yogurt, pineapple, vanilla, and sometimes nutmeg or raisins. It’s a sweet and creamy dish that provides a refreshing end to a spicy Togolese meal.

Togolese Chocolate

Togo is known for its cocoa production, and as such, locally produced chocolate is a must-try. Togolese chocolate is rich and often less sweet than Western varieties, providing a deep, authentic chocolate experience.