No restaurants found
We couldn't find any restaurants in Tema, Gana.
Signature Dishes
Tema's cuisine is characterized by the use of hot peppers, ginger, garlic, onions, and various spices. Dishes often feature starchy staples like yam, plantain, cassava, and cocoyam, served with flavorful soups and stews. Seafood plays a prominent role due to Tema's coastal location.
Banku and Tilapia
Banku is a fermented corn and cassava dough cooked into a smooth, slightly sour ball, typically served with grilled or fried tilapia. A spicy pepper sauce (Shito) is a common accompaniment.
Fufu and Light Soup
Fufu is a starchy staple made from pounded yam, cassava, or plantain (or a combination thereof). It is typically served with a light soup, often made with goat, fish or chicken, flavored with tomatoes, peppers, and spices.
Red Red (Beans Stew)
Red Red is a popular bean stew made with black-eyed peas, palm oil, tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices. It is usually served with fried plantains.
Kenkey
Kenkey is fermented corn dough wrapped in corn husks or plantain leaves and steamed. It has a slightly sour taste and is commonly eaten with fried fish, pepper sauce, and sometimes with ground pepper.
Jollof Rice
Jollof Rice is a flavorful rice dish cooked in a tomato-based sauce with spices, vegetables, and meat (often chicken or beef). It is a staple at celebrations and everyday meals.
Local Tips
To fully enjoy the culinary experience in Tema, consider these tips:
Embrace the Spice
Ghanaian food is generally spicy. If you're sensitive to heat, ask for your food to be prepared 'mild' or request the pepper sauce on the side.
Eat with Your Right Hand
It is customary to eat with your right hand. The left hand is traditionally considered unclean.
Try the Street Food
Street food offers a delicious and affordable way to experience local flavors. Be sure to choose vendors with good hygiene practices.
Bargain at the Markets
If you're buying ingredients or snacks at the market, don't be afraid to bargain respectfully for a better price.
Ask Locals for Recommendations
Locals are the best resource for finding hidden culinary gems and authentic Ghanaian dishes.
About Tema
Greater Accra Region
Food History
Ghanaian cuisine, including that of Tema, has been shaped by indigenous ingredients, trade with European powers, and influences from neighboring West African countries. The location on the coast has led to abundant seafood usage. Traditional methods of cooking are still prevalent, with emphasis on fresh, local ingredients.
Food Culture
Food in Tema, and Ghana in general, is deeply intertwined with culture and social life. Meals are often shared communally, and specific foods are associated with certain events and traditions.
Communal Eating
Sharing food is a central aspect of Ghanaian culture. Meals are often served in a large bowl or on a mat, and everyone eats from the same dish using their right hand.
Hospitality
Offering food to guests is a sign of hospitality and respect. Refusing food can be seen as impolite.
Funerals and Festivals
Specific foods are prepared for funerals and festivals, reflecting the importance of food in celebrating life and mourning losses. For example, 'Aprapransa' a thick palmnut soup is often served at funerals.
Palm Wine
Palm wine, a traditional alcoholic beverage made from the sap of palm trees, is often consumed during social gatherings and ceremonies.