Whether you grew up on these meals or you’re just discovering them now through friends, food markets, or FindChow, Afro-Caribbean cuisine provides an unforgettable experience to your platter. It’s not just about the spice (though sometimes, Uziza could be all the difference between two places of Egusi soup), it’s also about the history, community, and stories passed from one kitchen to another. So, whether you’re from the rich streets of Lagos or the lively corners of Accra and you’ve found yourself here, here are five must-try dishes you’ll find on the FindChow app, available from trusted local vendors in Plymouth and Birmingham.
- Waakye:
Waakye is a beloved Ghanaian rice and beans dish which originated in Northern Ghana. Its name comes from the word ‘shinkafa da wake’ which means ‘rice and beans’ in Hausa language. Waakye is often served with boiled eggs, spaghetti, fried plantain, shito (which is hot black pepper sauce), and sometimes meat of fish. It is the kind of meal you build based on what you love so no two Waakye plates look quite the same. Waakye can be had anytime, in the morning before work, during lunch break, or just to cool off in the evening.
You can order Waakye from our Ghanaian vendors in Birmingham, freshly packed and ready to go.
- Gizdodo:
Gizdodo is a spicy, sticky, stir-fried mix of seasoned chicken gizzards and ripe fried plantains. Its name comes from joining the words ‘gizzard’ and ‘dodo’ (which is the Yoruba word for fried plantains). Gizdodo is mainly eaten as a starter or a side dish. It’s that irresistible party food that disappears off the tray before the jollof even hits the table. Gizdodo is fun, flavorful, and always festive and always leaves people wanting for more. If you’re not a fan of gizzard’s texture, this is the perfect way to introduce it to your palette.
On FindChow, you can select Nigerian kitchens in Plymouth and Birmingham to get the gizdodo with that perfect plantain-to-gizzard ratio.
- Amala, Ewedu, and Gbegiri:
This is a traditional Yoruba delicacy made with Amala (yam flour swirled into a soft, stretchy swallow), served with two richly layered soups, Ewedu (slimy jute leaves) and Gbegiri (smooth bean soup), and topped with spicy stew and assorted meats. Amala, Ewedu, and Gbegiri is a comfort food with unique texture and flavours like nothing else. It’s earthy, deeply traditional, and has healing powers (at least that’s what every Yoruba mother swears).
Amala, Ewedu, and Gbegiri is our most ordered item and you can find out why by placing your order from our Nigerian vendors in Birmingham and Plymouth.
- Jollof Rice and Fried Plantain:
One of the most iconic West African dishes of all time. It is so good that there is an ongoing Jollof War but no matter where you stand, Nigerian, Ghanaian, Sierra Leonean, Jollof is a celebration. Jollof rice is a tomato-based rice, slow-cooked with onions, peppers, and spices until it’s smoky and slightly caramelized. It is best served with fried plantain, chicken, beef, or fish. Be it for a birthday, wedding, festival, or a solo meal, Jollof is your meal.
You can order Jollof rice from multiple vendors across both cities, each with their own recipe, all with that signature flair.
- White Rice and Stew:
Some might say this is Jollof rice separated. It is plain white rice served with a rich, spicy red stew made with protein (could be fresh fish, chicken, or beef), tomatoes, peppers, onions, and palm oil. This is everyday luxury in West African homes. It’s the kind of meal that says, ‘today is special,’ even if it’s a random Wednesday. The stew is deep, warming, and tastes even better the next day.
Our vendors know how to cook this classic meal to perfection and you can place your order so you don’t miss out.
These dishes are more than trending recipes, they’re part of who we are. Whether you’re from Lagos or Labadi, Peckham or Plymouth, food has a way of anchoring us to our roots. Through FindChow, you’re not just ordering a meal, you’re supporting local Afro-Caribbean vendors, preserving culture, and sharing in something beautiful.
Have you tried any of these dishes? Drop a comment with your favorite, or tag us on Instagram (@findchow_uk) with your plate. If you haven’t, download the FindChow app on iOS or Android and place your order.
