Snacks To Look For In An African Store
If you want to get to know a cuisine, you need to try the snacks that are part of that cuisine. After all, snacks tend to be the most beloved of foods. They're what people turn to for comfort and fun! If there's an African store in your area, definitely stop by. While you're there, look for some of these tasty snacks to sample.
Biltong
Biltong is similar to jerky. It's a dried meat snack that Africans take along when they're going to be away from home for a while, or when they're doing something active. It's typically seasoned with African herbs and spices like cumin and dried nettles. Usually, biltong is made with beef, but you can also find ostrich, chicken, and various other game that have been made into biltong.
Plantain Chips
Plantains are like larger, starchier bananas. They are slightly sweet on their own, but not nearly as sweet as bananas. However, they make excellent chips. After being sliced thinly, the chips are fried or baked and then tossed in tasty seasonings. In many African stores, you can find individual packets of plantain chips seasoned in different ways. They can be a fun substitute for your potato chips now and then!
Koeksisters
Koeksisters are similar to donuts. They're made from a soft, puffy dough that is fried in hot oil and then glazed with a sweet syrup. In Africa, these are often made on the street and sold soon after being made. However, in an African store, you may find some packaged and pre-made koeksisters. These won't be as good as fresh ones, but they should be delicious nonetheless. Try one for dessert, or when you're out and about and craving something sweet.
Chin Chin
Chin chin is a fried snack that is often sold in bags similar to potato chip bags. Most versions are made with chickpea dough that is extruded into a tube-like shape. Chin chin is then coated with nutmeg, cinnamon, and other sweet spices. Some brands may also make a savory version. Chin chin is very satisfying because it is so crisp and crunchy. You'll find yourself reaching for one more handful, again and again.
If you visit an African store, look for the snacks above while you're there. Enjoying these snacks will give you a better idea of what African cuisines are like, and what sort of snacks people throughout Africa enjoy on a regular basis.