Want bean-based street breakfast? You'll love these recipes
What's the story
From the bustling streets of Africa, bean-based breakfasts are a staple for many. These dishes are not only filling but also rich in flavors and nutrients. Beans, being a versatile ingredient, are used in various ways to create delicious morning meals. Here are five bean-based street breakfasts from Africa that highlight the continent's diverse culinary traditions and offer a hearty start to the day.
Egyptian delight
Ful medames: A popular Egyptian dish
Ful medames is a famous Egyptian breakfast made with fava beans. The dish is usually served warm and garnished with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices. It is usually eaten with pita bread or flatbreads. The creamy texture of the fava beans makes it a filling meal that provides energy for the day ahead.
Nigerian specialty
Akara: Nigerian bean cakes
Akara are deep-fried bean cakes made from black-eyed peas, which are blended into a paste with onions and spices. This popular street food in Nigeria is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Akara is commonly served as a breakfast item or snack and can be eaten alone or with other accompaniments such as pap or custard.
Stew sensation
Ewa riro: Flavorful Nigerian stew
Ewa riro is a traditional Nigerian stew made with mashed black-eyed peas cooked with tomatoes, peppers, onions, and spices. This hearty dish is usually served with rice or yam for breakfast. The combination of flavors makes it an enjoyable meal that keeps you full throughout the morning.
South African twist
Chakalaka: South African bean relish
Chakalaka is a spicy relish from South Africa, prepared with baked beans, vegetables such as carrots and cabbage, and spices like curry powder. While it can be eaten at any time of the day, it is often paired with breakfast items like pap (maize porridge) or bread rolls on street stalls across South Africa.
Kenyan classic
Githeri: Kenyan maize and bean mix
Githeri is a traditional Kenyan dish that mixes maize and kidney beans. The mixture is boiled until soft and then seasoned with salt, pepper, and sometimes vegetables like potatoes or carrots. This simple yet nutritious meal is commonly sold at roadside stalls as an affordable breakfast option for locals and tourists alike.