Wanis International Foods is your one-stop shop for global cuisine and invites you to explore the vibrant and diverse world of African food. From comforting staples like Alloco, Kushari, and Fufu to regional specialities like Tagines and Injera, African cuisine offers a unique culinary adventure for every palate. Whether that’s for distribution, cash and carry or export, you can make delicious foods with us as a supplier.
Journey Through Africa’s Culinary Landscape
Staple Ingredients & Must-Try Dishes
Unlock African culinary staples at Wanis International Food! Explore the versatility of cassava, yams, and plantains, used in various dishes like Gari, a coarse-grained flour perfect for soaking up stews, Eba, a smooth and springy dough, and Ugali, a stiff porridge often served alongside tasty sauces and curries.
Eba and Okra soup with seafood (left), and staple Ethiopian dish, Injera served with chicken, berbere, egg, Doro Wat, vegetables and lentils (right).
You can shop for rice to recreate beloved favourites like Jollof, known for its vibrant tomato base and aromatic spices, or West African fried rice, bursting with its unique blend of seasonings.
Discover our range selection of stews and soups. Find ingredients to create the rich and creamy peanut stew, or the vibrantly spiced Egusi soup, packed with a nutty punch, allowing you to recreate these heartwarming dishes or discover new favourites.
Exploring Regional Specialties
- North Africa: Explore the fragrant world of North African cuisine with tagines, couscous, and the fiery Harissa paste.
- East Africa: Experience the unique taste of Ethiopia with injera, a spongy flatbread used to scoop delicious stews.
- West Africa: Dive into the vibrant foods of West Africa with Peanut stew, known for its creamy richness, and Egusi soup, packed with a nutty punch.
- South African: Discover the unique culinary traditions of Southern Africa with Biltong, a dried meat snack, and Chakalaka, a spicy tomato relish.
West African Dish Spotlight: Jollof Rice
Jollof rice, a fragrant and colourful dish from West Africa, is a mainstay at Wanis. Made with rice, tomatoes, onions, spices, and your choice of protein, Jollof Rice varies slightly between countries. The Senegalese version is known for its use of fish, while the Nigerian and Ghanaian version often includes beef.
Ever wondered where jollof rice, that flavourful West African staple, comes from? The answer likely lies in Senegal and Gambia. One theory places its origins in the ancient Wolof Empire (14th century), where a similar dish called “thieboudienne” combines rice with seafood and vegetables. Another theory places its birth during French colonialism, with the introduction of broken rice leading to a new culinary creation. Regardless of its beginnings, jollof rice has become a beloved dish throughout West Africa, with each region adding its special twist.
(On the left), Jollof rice served with plantain, chicken and red sauce.
Here’s a peek into preparing jollof rice:
- Blend tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and scotch bonnet peppers into a smooth puree.
- Heat oil in a large pot and sauté chopped onions until golden brown.
- Add tomato paste and fry for a few minutes, then pour in the blended tomato mixture.
- Season with spices, seasoning cubes/powder, and salt to taste.
- Stir in washed rice, ensuring they’re well-coated with the sauce.
- Add enough water or broth to cover the rice, then cover the pot and simmer until the rice is cooked through.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot with your choice of meat or fish (or have without!).
Sign up as a Cash & Carry member today!
What is the Cultural Significance?
In Africa, food transcends sustenance. It’s a cornerstone of social connection and is woven into the fabric of its cultural identity. Meals are a time for families and communities to gather around a shared table, fostering bonds and strengthening traditions. Jollof rice, for example, is more than just a dish; it’s a symbol of celebration, a vibrant part of weddings, festivals, and other occasions.
Unlock Authentic African Flavours at Wanis
At Wanis International Foods, we understand the importance of using high-quality, authentic ingredients to experience the true essence of African cuisine. We offer a wide range of African products, from popular brands like Ghana’s Best, Africa’s Finest and more. Each of the groceries and drinks to unique regional specialities. Recreate your favourite dishes or discover something entirely new to your home or business.
Ready to explore the diverse foods of Africa? Become a Cash and Carry or Delivery member at Wanis International Foods to embark on your culinary adventure today! Discover new ingredients, find inspiration for your next meal, and unlock a world of possibilities.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.