The list of popular African Christmas foods depends on which country you visit. Africa is a vast continent, and traditions vary in each culture. But no traditional celebration is complete without that sumptuous array of holiday foods to share with our loved ones over merry chatters and cheerful songs.
It’s been a couple of years since I celebrated Christmas back in my beloved Cameroon. I was hoping to make it back last Christmas, but, due to unforeseen circumstances, I celebrated it here in the States with family and friends. However, my Christmas menu focused on popular African foods, and we had a blast.
I don’t know about you, but for me, Christmas is meant for memories, and my palate longs for those bold, rich, and flavorful African dishes that fill my mind with joy. And in most West African countries, Christmas is about stews, chicken, rice, goat, and chin chin.
So in the spirit of the holidays, I am sharing with you some popular African foods to celebrate Christmas in style. And some are recipes that only show up occasionally because they’re that special.
Let’s dig in…
Main Dishes
1. Chicken Stew
I have yet to attend a West African Christmas party without chicken stew. Nope, Christmas wouldn’t be complete without it. Farm-raised is best if you can get it. So well seasoned with aromatics that penetrate to the bone, you’ll want to nibble on those bones.
2. Curried Goat Stew
Goat is possibly the most popular meat across Africa. Gatherings and parties almost always call for this tender, not overly spicy, curried goat stew. While there are many ways to prepare goat, low and slow brings out its full flavor and makes it tender. Cook it slowly for 1-2 hours (3-5 at high altitude), then fry it with curry, onions, garlic, ginger, and other spices. Perfectly juicy, tender, with an amazing earthy and spicy flavor!
3. Liberian Chicken Gravy
This stew variation is a stew lover’s dream. Loaded with chicken, fish, and shrimp, it delivers a high-protein main course. The more protein, the better, right? Plus, bell peppers make all the difference in the unique flavor. The fragrant combination of garlic, bell pepper, tomatoes, and herbs is a classic African stew combination that’s a must on every Christmas table. You seriously need to make this!
4. African Grilled Chicken (Kati Kati)
For my Cameroonian peeps, we’ve got grilled chicken. Smothering it in a spicy tomato sauce for extra spicy goodness.
5. African-Style Grilled Tilapia
If fish is on the menu, look no further for the best African recipe. Everyone will want seconds after they get a bite of this grilled tilapia.
6. Mozambique Peri Peri Grilled Chicken
Check out any list of popular African food, and this recipe will be on it. You’ll go crazy over its spicy, creamy coconut sauce ramped up with olive oil and more coconut milk.
7. Goat Pepper Soup
A delicious African soup that will warm you up. Exotic spices like ginger, garlic, pepper, and onions make it especially tasty. But fish pepper soup and African chicken pepper soup are great alternatives.
8. Moroccan Couscous
Enjoy a guilt-free, healthy option for your vegan friends. Couscous, chickpeas, and fresh veggies are brimming with complex flavor from various herbs and spices. Incredibly flavorful, savory, and minty with a citrusy zing! Even better, you can prepare it in less than 20 minutes!
9. Shakshuka
A healthy and hearty breakfast, lunch, or dinner made with poached eggs in a well-spiced tomato-based stew. Pair it with fresh bread and a salad, and you’ll have a satisfying and nourishing meal!
Rice Dishes
You can’t have an African Christmas without some tasty rice dishes. So feast on these.
10. Jollof Rice (Baked)
Easy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked rice made in the oven with only 5 minutes prep time. No blending or stirring is involved. But if you’re looking for a Cameroonian stovetop jollof, I’ve got you covered.
11. Nigerian Fried Rice
Whether for Christmas breakfast or dinner, fried rice is perfect for feeding a crowd. Besides, it’s so easy to whip up and everyone will love it, even picky eaters.
12. Coconut Fried Rice
Fried rice is my all-time favorite way to enjoy rice. This dish is absolutely irresistible and incredibly easy. Two huge wins if you’re a busy home cook like me!
13. East African Pilau
This quick, easy, and aromatic one-pan dish is packed with warm flavors from cumin, smoked paprika, curry, and cardamom. Another great vegetarian option that will satisfy even hardcore meat lovers.
More Side Dishes
14. Irio Mashed Potatoes
This hearty way to enjoy mashed potatoes (or sweet potatoes) is a traditional Kenyan dish. Peas, corn, and sometimes spinach add more nutrition and flavor.
15. Fufu
A traditional staple that is rarely missing from the table, especially if there’s a stew involved. You may prefer ugali or pounded yams for your Christmas meal. There’s no wrong answer.
16. Stewed Spinach
So easy and delicious, your family will forget they’re eating vegetables. Spicy (customizable), flavorful, and good for you has never tasted better.
17. Carrot Pineapple Raisin Salad
This salad is one of those sides that always makes its appearance on the holiday table. It’s bright and cheerful, plus it makes a healthy dessert in a pinch.
18. Chakalaka
If you are firing up the grill, then it’s easy to add vegetables for this great-tasting South African side. It’s a must for any barbecue, and it’s vegan, paleo, and bursting with flavor.
African Snack and Dessert Recipes
We’re not done yet. Desserts are starting to be a thing at Christmas. Let’s dive into popular desserts and snacks that stand out on any occasion, especially Christmas.
19. Nigerian Chin Chin
Christmas would not be complete without Christmas chin chin! I just finished making a double batch of these because they’re crispy, crunchy, and addictive. Ghana chin chin is just as tasty.
20. Moi Moi
A savory pudding made with peeled black-eyed peas is a classic comfort food with Nigerian roots. Get ready to enjoy a hearty snack with just the right amount of heat.
21. Scotch Egg
Crunchy, spicy, tasty, and meat-free, these handheld snacks are easy and provide a delicious bite of childhood nostalgia, as anyone who grew up eating this classic comfort food can testify.
22. Puff Puff (Deep-Fried Dough)
A very popular West African street food that’s quick and easy with several variations. Dangerously delicious and addictive! I bet you can’t eat just one.
23. Malva Pudding
A decadent traditional South African dessert you just have to try! Rich, moist, chocolaty, and oh so easy!
24. Rum Cake With Rum Butter Sauce
Rum reminds a lot of people of the holidays, and holidays also mean baking. This buttery, dense cake will make you leap for joy, especially after you soak it in warm rum butter sauce.
Holiday Drinks to Enjoy
25. Pineapple Ginger Juice
This refreshing West African drink has just the right blend of sweet, spicy, and tart that hits the spot every time!
26. Sorrel Drink
A spiced-up floral drink that’s super refreshing and perfect for Christmas. The beautiful dark red color and captivating tang similar to cranberries make a unique drink that’s traditional in tropical countries.
27. Homemade Bailey’s Irish Cream
Christmas wouldn’t be a celebration without clinking cups of wine and glasses of cocktails. When we were kids, my siblings, cousins, and I would always get jealous of the rest of the adults as they poured a glass of this creamy, sweet, sensational, and fragrant liquor. It’s pretty customizable, too. You can add mint, cinnamon, or nutmeg to suit your taste buds.
Did I miss your favorite African Christmas food? Leave a comment below and let us know what rocks your holiday meal. Happy holidays, everyone! Wishing you a merry and meaningful one.
By Imma
