Verified Facts
When visiting Burkina Faso, you should try the local dishes such as Riz Gras, Tô, and Mafé, which showcase the country's unique blend of West African and French culinary influences.
Quick Facts
Food Culture Overview
Burkina Faso's cuisine is characterized by the use of local ingredients such as millet, sorghum, and peanuts, which are staples in the country's diet. The cuisine has been influenced by the country's location in West Africa, with neighboring countries such as Mali and Ghana contributing to the diversity of dishes. French colonial rule has also left a mark on the country's cuisine, with many dishes incorporating French ingredients and cooking techniques. Regional variations are also evident, with different ethnic groups having their own unique cooking styles and specialties.
The country's cuisine is often simple, yet flavorful, with a focus on hearty stews and sauces made with a combination of ingredients such as meat, vegetables, and peanuts. Tô, a thick cornmeal porridge, is a staple food in many parts of the country, often served with a variety of sauces and stews. The use of spices and herbs is also prevalent, with many dishes featuring a blend of African and French spices.
In Burkina Faso, mealtimes are often seen as opportunities to socialize and bond with family and friends. Meals are typically served in a communal setting, with everyone gathering around a large platter of food. This emphasis on community and sharing is reflected in the country's cuisine, with many dishes designed to be shared and enjoyed with others.
Must-Try Dishes
| Dish | Type | Description | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|---|
| Riz Gras | main course | flavorful rice dish made with meat or fish and vegetables | restaurants in Ouagadougou |
| Tô | side dish | thick cornmeal porridge served with sauces and stews | street food stalls and markets |
| Mafé | stew | rich and flavorful stew made with meat or fish and vegetables | traditional restaurants in Bobo-Dioulasso |
| Poulet Yassa | main course | grilled chicken marinated in a spicy sauce | street food stalls and markets |
| Kedjenou | stew | slow-cooked stew made with meat or fish and vegetables | traditional restaurants in Ouagadougou |
| Fufu | side dish | boiled and pounded cassava or yams served with sauces and stews | street food stalls and markets |
| Akara | snack | fried bean cakes often served with a spicy sauce | street food stalls and markets |
| Thieboudienne | main course | hearty fish and rice dish made with a variety of vegetables | restaurants in Ouagadougou |
| Maafe de Poulet | main course | rich and flavorful stew made with chicken and vegetables | traditional restaurants in Bobo-Dioulasso |
| Yassa de Boeuf | main course | grilled beef marinated in a spicy sauce | street food stalls and markets |
Street Food & Snacks
- Beignets: fried dough balls sprinkled with sugar, $0.50 USD
- Fried Plantains: sliced plantains fried until crispy, $1.00 USD
- Grilled Meat: skewers of grilled meat, often served with a spicy sauce, $2.00 USD
- Fresh Fruit: a variety of fresh fruit such as mangoes and oranges, $0.50 USD
- Poulet Yassa: grilled chicken marinated in a spicy sauce, $3.00 USD
- Akara: fried bean cakes often served with a spicy sauce, $1.00 USD
Drinks
- Ginger Beer: a spicy and refreshing drink made with ginger, $1.00 USD
- Fresh Juice: a variety of fresh juices such as mango and orange, $1.50 USD
- Bissap: a sweet and tangy drink made with hibiscus flowers, $1.00 USD
- Flag Beer: a local beer brewed in Burkina Faso, $2.00 USD
- Coca-Cola: a popular international soft drink, $1.50 USD
- Water: bottled water is widely available, $1.00 USD
Dining Customs
- Eating with Your Hands: it is customary to eat with your hands in many traditional settings
- Respect for Elders: older individuals are often served first and given the best portions
- Sharing Food: meals are often shared with others, and it is considered impolite to eat alone
- Tipping: 5-10% of the total bill is considered standard
- Dress Code: dress modestly and avoid revealing clothing
- Reservation Culture: reservations are not always necessary, but it is a good idea to call ahead to confirm availability
Where to Eat
- Traditional Restaurants: offer a variety of local dishes and traditional cuisine
- Street Food Stalls: offer a range of snacks and light meals at affordable prices
- Markets: offer a variety of fresh produce and local specialties
- Food Courts: offer a range of international and local cuisine in a casual setting
- Cafes: offer a range of coffee and pastries, as well as light meals and snacks
Food Markets & Food Experiences
- Ouagadougou Market: a large and bustling market offering a variety of fresh produce and local specialties
- Bobo-Dioulasso Market: a smaller market offering a range of local goods and specialties
- Koudougou Market: a market specializing in fresh produce and meat
- Burkina Faso Food Festival: an annual festival celebrating the country's cuisine and culture
- Cooking Classes: available in many cities, offering the opportunity to learn about local cuisine and cooking techniques