Top 10 Foods in Cameroon

Introduction 

Cameroon, often referred to as “Africa in miniature,” is a nation rich in diversity — from its over 250 ethnic groups to its expansive geography that spans tropical coasts, rainforests, savannas, and mountains. This diversity is mirrored in its cuisine, making Cameroonian food one of the most flavorful, colorful, and culturally rich in all of Africa. With strong influences from French, Portuguese, and indigenous traditions, Cameroonian dishes are a harmonious blend of spices, hearty ingredients, and centuries-old techniques. Whether enjoyed on a street corner in Douala or during a family gathering in Yaoundé, the food of Cameroon tells a story of heritage, creativity, and community. Let’s dive into the top 10 foods that capture the essence of this vibrant country.

1. Ndolé (Bitterleaf Stew)
Ndolé is Cameroon’s most iconic dish — a rich, earthy stew made from bitterleaf (a local green), groundnuts (peanuts), and often beef, shrimp, or fish. The bitterness of the leaves is balanced by the creaminess of the peanut sauce, resulting in a deeply satisfying flavor. Served with plantains, rice, or bobolo (fermented cassava wrapped in leaves), ndolé is a must-try for anyone wanting an authentic Cameroonian experience.

2. Eru and Water Fufu
Originating from the southwest, Eru is a beloved dish made from shredded eru leaves (similar to spinach), cooked with waterleaf, palm oil, smoked fish, and meat. It's traditionally served with water fufu — a smooth, slightly sour dough made from fermented cassava. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this dish is popular at special occasions and family gatherings.

3. Poulet DG (Director General Chicken)
This luxurious dish literally translates to “Director General Chicken” and is a favorite among elites and everyday Cameroonians alike. Made with seasoned fried chicken, ripe plantains, carrots, green beans, and bell peppers simmered in a flavorful tomato-based sauce, it’s a sweet and savory feast that reflects Cameroon’s flair for combining familiar ingredients into gourmet-level meals.

4. Koki (Black-Eyed Pea Cake)
Koki is a steamed cake made from black-eyed peas blended with red palm oil and spices. Sometimes enriched with fish or leafy greens, it’s wrapped in banana leaves and steamed until firm. Rich in protein and incredibly satisfying, koki is often enjoyed during festivals or as a hearty lunch.

5. Achu and Yellow Soup
A traditional dish from the Northwest region, Achu is made from pounded cocoyams (similar to yam or taro) served with a bright yellow soup made from palm oil, limestone, and spices. Usually topped with pieces of meat or cow skin, this meal is both comforting and celebratory, often served at weddings and important cultural events.

6. Suya (Spicy Meat Skewers)
Suya is a popular street food found across West and Central Africa, and Cameroonians have made it their own. Typically made from thinly sliced beef or chicken, marinated in a spicy peanut-based rub, and grilled over open flames, suya is served with onions, pepper, and sometimes fried plantains. It’s the ultimate street-side snack.

7. Pepper Soup
This hot and spicy soup is made with goat, fish, or chicken, and heavily seasoned with native spices like njansa, garlic, and hot chili peppers. It’s often consumed as a comfort food or believed to have medicinal properties, especially when one is feeling under the weather. Served alone or with boiled plantains or yams, it’s both restorative and flavorful.

8. Beans and Fried Plantains (Ekwang Beans)
One of Cameroon’s most common and beloved everyday meals is stewed beans served with fried ripe plantains. The beans are often slow-cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices until tender and creamy. This simple yet hearty dish is a staple in homes, school cafeterias, and roadside eateries.

9. Ekwang (Grated Cocoyam Rolls)
This traditional dish is made by grating cocoyams and wrapping them in cocoyam leaves, then cooking them with palm oil, crayfish, meat, and spices. It’s labor-intensive but deeply flavorful and filling. A favorite among coastal and forest communities, Ekwang is a delicacy that speaks to culinary artistry and patience.

10. Banana and Groundnut Sauce
This sweet and savory combo features boiled green bananas or plantains served with a groundnut (peanut) sauce. The sauce is smooth and spiced just right, often including tomatoes and aromatic herbs. It’s a balanced, comforting meal that highlights the Cameroonian love for peanuts as a foundational ingredient.

Conclusion 
From the lush rainforests to the bustling city markets, Cameroonian cuisine is a delicious exploration of the country’s complex cultural fabric. The top 10 foods listed here offer just a glimpse into the variety and depth of flavors that define the Cameroonian table. These dishes not only nourish the body but also connect generations, tell stories, and celebrate the richness of a nation proud of its heritage. Whether you're new to African cuisine or already a fan, tasting Cameroon is an experience that leaves both the heart and the stomach full.