If Africa is the cradle of civilisation, it is also the cradle of flavour. One of the star ingredients that gives its dishes their intensity is ginger, especially in countries like Ivory Coast and Nigeria.
We will talk about the first one today because, as well as being the world’s leading cocoa exporter, it is a major producer of ginger. This root is a constant presence in the country’s street markets in all its forms (fresh, dried, processed, in drinks…) and a source of income for many families.
“Ginger is a traditional plant with many medicinal properties. Whether eaten raw, drunk or taken as a powder, its effectiveness is similar. It is generally consumed most during Ramadan,” explains Awa Traore, a ginger seller at one of the country’s markets.
By the way, one of the most refreshing drinks you can have when travelling to Ivory Coast It's the Nyamanku, made from ginger powder mixed with orange, lemon and pineapple.