West African superfoods have been growing in popularity over the last few years, and are in demand in big markets like the USA and the UK. Health-conscious foodies are choosing West African superfoods because they are flavoursome, easy to use, and packed full of nutrients. Here are some of the most popular West African superfoods to look out for.

Fonio – Senegal and Savannah Region

Fonio was brought into the African superfood limelight by chef Pierre Thiam of Senegal at a TED Talk in 2017. In the same year he introduced fonio recipes to his fine dining restaurants in New York. This eco-friendly grain is high in amino acids, gluten-free, and versatile. Fonio takes just five minutes to cook. Replace rolled oats for a fonio porridge breakfast or use it as a lunch or dinner staple, it has a grainy fluffy texture like couscous and a delicious nutty flavour.

Kinkéliba leaves – Sahel region

Kinkéliba leaves are West African bush leaves grown across the Sahel region of Africa. Brewing the leaves makes a drinking tea with many health benefits. Loaded with flavonoids, an antioxidant powerhouse – kinkéliba tea is both tasty and used as a traditional medicine.

This red bush tea relieves headaches, aids fatigue, and is caffeine-free. Try sipping kinkéliba tea while eating or just after mealtime to aid digestion.

Tamarind – Nigeria and tropical Africa

Tamarind is an underrated superfood grown in Africa’s tropical rainforests and also in Nigeria. This pod-shaped sweet and sour fruit is packed with essential nutrients such as calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus and thiamine which supports brain, heart and nerve functions. Tamarind’s flavonoid content can also help to lower cholesterol.

Growing up in South Africa, I enjoyed eating tamarind in the form of a candied treat. The unique sweet and sour flavours make it very difficult to stop eating once you start. For those who haven’t got a sweet tooth, tamarind works just as well in savoury dishes like salad sauces and stews.

Baobab fruit – Sub-Saharan Africa

Baobab is known as ‘the tree of life’ and has the highest antioxidant content of any fruit, an essential nutrient that helps to fight inflammation. This superfood superstar also contains high amounts of magnesium, iron, vitamin c and soluble fibre.

Baobab is an all-rounder, Its fruit, seeds and leaves work well in many dishes. If fresh baobab fruit or dried baobab leaves are not available where you live, then opt for the powdered form, which is more readily available. Add the powder to your breakfast bowl, smoothies, and soup.

West African superfoods will continue to grow in popularity, due to their huge health benefits, and exciting flavours. Next time you head to the supermarket look out for some. You may find that your average supermarket is more pan-African than you realise.

Have you found any of these West African superfoods at your local supermarket ? We would love to know.