Senegalese Cuisine

     Tam Tam, Les Cannibales Deux, and Le Baobob are just several of the culinary hotspots within Senegal's capital city of Dakar.  As indicated by these particular restaurants' names, Senagelese food is characterized by a clear French influence.  However, it nonetheless maintains a unique flavor palette that includes different meats, seafood, and tropical fruits.  Senagelese cuisine also draws influence from Portugal and North Africa.  In addition to the existence of traditional Senegalese cuisine in homes and restaurants across the countries, Senegal also boasts a diverse array of international food choices, ranging from Asian to Indian.
    Although seafood and meats are popular meal choices in Senegal, the presence of a prominent Muslim population results in very little pork consumption.  The country's largest crop, as mentioned in my previous post about the economy, is the peanut.  It is therefore hardly surprising that this particular food is integrated into many recipes, as well as lentils, couscous, and black-eyed peas.  In terms of specific popular meals, one national dish can be seen in the photo below.  Ceebu Jen, a fish dish served with rice, vegetables, and various spices, is just one example.  Meals are typically served with bread, as well as various tropical fruits.

 

    One of the more interesting aspects of food in Senegal is the actual process of dining, especially in homes.  Dinner involves several rituals, including pouring water over your hands prior to entering the dining room and eating the meal with the first three fingers of your right hand.  To see this method of eating in action, see the video below!  Additionally, dinner represents a time to talk, share stories, and enjoy others' company.  Living in a time and place where meals are often rushed and/or impersonal, it is refreshing to become familiar with a culture that values the potential intimacy and value of mealtimes, and holds strong associations between food and family.

University of Pennsylvania, "Senegal: Menus and Recipes from Africa." UPenn Africana Studies Center. April 4, 2012. http://www.africa.upenn.edu/Cookbook/Senegal.html

Just Food Now, "African Spirit--Food of Senegal." April 4, 2012. http://www.justfoodnow.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/Ceebu-Jen-image-from-grubstreet.jpg

Senegal Embassy, "Senegalese Food and Drink."  Welcome to Senegal. April 4, 2012
http://senegal.embassyhomepage.com/senegalese_food_senegalese_drinks_restaurants_dakar_senegalese_cuisine_senegalese_food_recipe_book_senegalese_embassy_london_uk.htm