# A Day of Eating in Togo – What Locals Eat from Morning to Night
Discover Oil Down, a beloved dish from the region.
Discover How to Make Cape Verdean Salmon by Chef Christa Lynch of Brooklyn Braised - NY Eats, a beloved dish from the region.
Discover St. Lucian Bakes and Saltfish, a beloved dish from the region.
Introduction:
Welcome to Togo, a West African country known for its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine. Join us on a culinary journey through a typical day of meals in Togo, from sunrise to sunset, as we explore what locals eat from morning to night.
Cultural Background:
Togo's cuisine is a delightful blend of traditional African flavors, influenced by its diverse ethnic groups such as the Ewe, Mina, and Kabye. Meals in Togo are often a communal affair, with food symbolizing unity and hospitality, reflecting the country's warm and welcoming culture.
Famous Dishes:
Breakfast:
In Togo, breakfast is a hearty affair usually consisting of corn-based dishes like Akume (cornmeal porridge) or Akara (fried bean cakes). These dishes are often accompanied by fried plantains, boiled eggs, and a side of spicy pepper sauce.
Lunch:
For lunch, Togolese people typically enjoy a meal of Fufu (pounded cassava or plantain) served with a flavorful soup or sauce, such as Egusi soup (made with melon seeds) or Gbegiri (black-eyed pea soup). Grilled fish or chicken is a popular protein choice to accompany the meal.
Dinner:
Dinner in Togo is another opportunity for a communal feast. A common dinner dish is Atieke with grilled fish or chicken. Atieke is a couscous-like dish made from grated cassava, fluffy in texture and slightly tangy in taste. It is often served with a side of spicy sauce and vegetables.
Ingredients:
Key ingredients in Togolese cuisine include cassava, plantains, maize, peanuts, and a variety of spices such as ginger, garlic, and hot peppers. Fresh seafood, particularly fish, is also a staple in many dishes, thanks to Togo's coastal location.
Snacks and Street Food:
Throughout the day, Togolese people enjoy snacks like Kuli Kuli (fried peanut snacks) or Aloko (fried plantains). Street food stalls offer a variety of treats such as Suya (grilled skewered meat), Beignets (fried doughnuts), and Grilled Corn, perfect for a quick bite on the go.
Drinks:
To wash down their meals, Togolese people often indulge in refreshing beverages like Bissap (hibiscus tea), Tchapalo (fermented millet drink), or the popular local beer, Flag. Palm wine, tapped from palm trees, is also a favorite traditional drink enjoyed during social gatherings.
Conclusion:
A day of eating in Togo is a flavorful experience that celebrates the country's rich culinary heritage. From comforting breakfast dishes to communal lunch feasts and satisfying dinner meals, Togolese cuisine offers a delightful array of flavors and textures that reflect the warmth and hospitality of its people. So, next time you find yourself in Togo, be sure to indulge in the local fare and savor the vibrant tastes of this West African gem. Bon appétit!
