Introduction
Ghanaian egg recipes hold a special place, celebrated for their versatility and nutritional value. Ghanaian cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavours, colours, and textures, reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage. Eggs, a versatile and affordable protein, are starring in many beloved dishes. From hearty stews to street food snacks, eggs are transformed into mouthwatering creations that delight locals and visitors alike. In this article, we explore 10 traditional Ghanaian egg recipes that showcase the ingenuity of West African cooking. Whether you’re a home chef or a curious foodie, these dishes promise a delicious adventure.
1. Ghanaian Egg Stew
Description: This tomato-based stew is a household staple, often paired with rice, yams, or plantains. Hard-boiled eggs simmer in a rich, spicy sauce with tomatoes, onions, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
- 6 hard-boiled eggs
- 4 tomatoes (blended)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 tbsp palm oil
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 scotch bonnet pepper (optional)
- Salt, paprika, and thyme to taste
Instructions:
- Heat palm oil in a pot and sauté onions until golden.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and blended tomatoes; cook until thickened.
- Stir in spices and peeled eggs; simmer for 10 minutes.
Tip: Use smoked fish or mushrooms for a deeper flavour.
2. Yam and Egg Sauce (Yam B3 Egg)
Description: A hearty breakfast favourite, boiled yam is served with a spicy scrambled egg sauce.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium yam (peeled and boiled)
- 4 eggs
- 1 onion, one tomato, one bell pepper (chopped)
- 1 tsp chilli powder
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
- Sauté onions, tomatoes, and peppers in oil.
- Whisk eggs with chilli powder and pour into the pan; scramble until set.
- Serve with sliced yams.
Tip: Add smoked herring for a traditional twist.
3. Omelette with Fried Plantains (Omelette ne Kelewele)
Description: A fusion of fluffy omelette and sweet-spicy kelewele (fried plantains).
Ingredients:
- 4 eggs
- 2 ripe plantains (sliced)
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 onion (diced)
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
- Fry plantains with cayenne until caramelised.
- Whisk eggs with onions; cook into an omelette.
- Serve together for a sweet-savoury combo.
Tip: Sprinkle with “shito” (black pepper sauce) for extra heat.
4. Egg Jollof Rice
Description: Jollof rice, a West African classic, gets a protein boost with eggs.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups jollof rice (cooked)
- 4 boiled eggs
- 1 cup mixed veggies (peas, carrots)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
Instructions:
- Stir-fry veggies and tomato paste into the rice.
- Top with sliced eggs and steam for 5 minutes.
Tip: Use day-old rice for better texture.
5. Ghanaian Egg Sandwich
Description: A street food gem featuring mashed eggs, veggies, and spicy margarine.
Ingredients:
- 4 hard-boiled eggs
- 1 onion, one tomato (chopped)
- 4 bread rolls
- 2 tbsp spicy margarine (or shito)
Instructions:
- Mash eggs with onions and tomatoes.
- Spread margarine on bread; stuff with egg mix.
Tip: Add sliced avocado for creaminess.
6. Okro Soup with Poached Eggs
Description: Slimy okra soup gains richness from poached eggs.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups okra (sliced)
- 1 smoked fish
- 4 eggs
- 1 onion, two tomatoes
Instructions:
- Boil okra, fish, and veggies into a soup.
- Crack eggs into the simmering soup; poach until set.
Tip: Serve with “eto” (mashed yam) for a complete meal.
7. Red Red with Eggs
Description: A protein-packed twist on the classic bean and plantain stew.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups black-eyed peas
- 2 plantains (fried)
- 4 boiled eggs
- 1 tbsp palm oil
Instructions:
- Cook beans with palm oil and spices.
- Serve with fried plantains and halved eggs.
Tip: Mash beans slightly for a thicker stew.
8. Kontomire Stew with Eggs
Description: Nutrient-rich cocoyam leaves stewed with eggs.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups kontomire (taro leaves)
- 4 hard-boiled eggs
- 1 cup agushi (melon seeds)
- 2 tbsp palm oil
Instructions:
- Boil and blend kontomire leaves.
- Cook with agushi and palm oil; add eggs.
Tip: Pair with boiled cassava or plantains.
9. Egg Ball
Description: A crunchy street snack of boiled eggs coated in spiced dough.
Ingredients:
- 4 hard-boiled eggs
- 1 cup flour
- 1 tsp chilli powder
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
- Mix flour, water, and chilli into a dough.
- Wrap eggs in dough; deep-fry until golden.
Tip: Serve with pepper sauce for dipping.
10. Ghanaian Egg Pie
Description: A savoury-sweet pie with a custardy egg filling.
Ingredients:
- 6 eggs
- 1 pie crust
- ½ cup milk
- 1 onion, one sausage (chopped)
Instructions:
- Whisk eggs, milk, and sautéed fillings.
- Pour into crust; bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tip: Add grated cheese for extra richness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
Q1: What makes Ghanaian egg stew unique?
A: Palm oil and slow-cooked tomato sauce give it a distinct smoky-sweet flavour.
Q2: Can I make these recipes vegetarian?
A: Yes! Substitute fish or meat with mushrooms, tofu, or extra veggies.
Q3: Is shito sauce very spicy?
A: It can be! Adjust the chilli level to your preference.
Q4: What’s the best way to peel boiled eggs for egg balls?
A: Roll boiled eggs gently on a counter to crack the shell before peeling under cold water.
Q5: Can I freeze Ghanaian egg pie?
A: Yes, though it’s best enjoyed fresh. Reheat in an oven for optimal texture.
Conclusion
From the smoky depths of egg stew to the crispy joy of egg balls, Ghanaian egg recipes offer something for every palate. These dishes are more than meals—they celebrate community and tradition. Try these recipes at home, and bring a taste of Ghana to your kitchen!
Embark on this culinary journey and savour the richness of Ghana’s egg-centric delights! 🍳🌍