West Africa · Breakfast
Waakye (Ghanaian Rice and Beans with Sorghum Leaves)
Fragrant rice and tender cowpeas dyed a striking burgundy with dried sorghum leaf sheaths.
The story
Originating among the Hausa and northern peoples of Ghana, Waakye has evolved into the quintessential morning street food across Accra and Kumasi. The characteristic deep reddish-purple hue and earthy aroma come from steeping dried red sorghum leaf sheaths, known locally as waakye leaves. It is traditionally sold wrapped in broad katemfe leaves, piled high with shito, spaghetti (talia), boiled eggs, and wele.
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