Many would suggest that fish and chips is used to identify the English. But after reading an interesting book titled ‘Fish and Chip’s, I took a look at the African and black community in London to discover what foods are immediately identified as African or even black?
Jollof Rice.
Jollof Rice is a party favourite and is largely associated with Nigerians although it originated in the Wolof region of Gambia. Ghanaian’s and Nigerians compete with each other as to who makes the best Jollof rice but my vote goes to Nigeria on this one.
Puff Puff
Also known as ‘Botocoin’ by the Togolese, this party favourite is made from flour, sugar, yeast and is fried. It is loved by many West Africana especially served hot. (picture courtesy of allnigerianrecipe.com)
Couscous
This is one of my personal favourites because it is very light and versatile. This is mainly associated with the North Africans especially the Senegalese, who serve it at their various celebrations.
Kenkey
This is almost exclusively associated with Ghanaians in London. However I discovered from research that it is eaten in parts of Togo, Ivory Coast and even Guyana where it is known as ‘Konkee’; interestingly, it is also eaten in parts of Jamaica. It is served with freshly ground pepper and fried fish or with stew.
Jerk chicken
This is predominantly associated with the Jamaicans. Jerk is a way of cooking whereby the chicken /meat is dry-rubbed or wet marinated with a very hot spice mixture. This mixture is called the Jamaican jerk spice. This is another favourite especially at barbeques in summer time in London.
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