Whether you're cooking jollof rice, egusi soup, or a quick stew, having the right ingredients on hand makes all the difference. Here are 10 must-have African groceries every pantry should have.

1. Palm Oil

The foundation of West African cooking. Rich, red, and full of flavor. Used in jollof rice, egusi soup, and stews.

2. Gari (Cassava Flakes)

Fermented and dried cassava flakes. Eat it with sugar and milk, or soak it in water for a quick snack.

3. Crayfish

Ground dried shrimp. The secret to authentic Nigerian flavor. Essential for soups and stews.

4. Egusi (Melon Seeds)

Ground melon seeds used in Egusi Soup. Rich in protein and gives soups a thick, hearty texture.

5. Ogbono

Wild mango seed. When cooked, it becomes thick and stretchy — perfect for Ogbono Soup.

6. Rice

Long-grain rice for jollof, fried rice, and coconut rice. A true African pantry staple.

7. Beans (Honey Beans / Black-Eyed Peas)

Used in akara, moin moin, and beans porridge. Protein-rich and versatile.

8. Plantain

Ripe for frying, unripe for boiling. A staple in every African kitchen.

9. Stock Cubes (Maggi / Knorr)

The flavor base of most African dishes. Always keep these on hand.

10. Dried Pepper (Cameroon Pepper)

Hot, aromatic, and essential for pepper soup, suya, and stews.

Bonus: Banku Mix & Kenkey

For Ghanaian dishes, keep banku mix and kenkey in your pantry. Quick, easy, and authentic.

Stock Up at African Grocery Online

We deliver authentic African groceries across the USA. Free shipping over $75 (local) / $150 (nationwide).

Final Thoughts

With these 10 staples in your pantry, you're ready to cook any African dish. Stock up, and never run out of the essentials again.