What is Banku?
Banku is a traditional Ghanaian dish made from a fermented mixture of corn and cassava dough. It has a smooth, slightly sour taste and is typically served with grilled tilapia, okra stew, or shito (pepper sauce).
Ingredients Needed for Banku
To make banku for 2–3 people, you’ll need:
Main Ingredients
✔️ 2 cups corn dough
✔️ 1 cup cassava dough
✔️ 2 cups water
✔️ ½ teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Banku
Step 1: Mixing the Dough
Doughmix
1️⃣ In a large bowl, mix the corn dough and cassava dough together.
2️⃣ Gradually add water and use your hand to knead it into a smooth, thick paste.
3️⃣ Add salt and mix well to balance the taste.
Step 2: Cooking the Banku
1️⃣ Pour the mixture into a non-stick saucepan over medium heat.
2️⃣ Stir continuously with a wooden spatula (Banku ‘ta’ in Ghana).
3️⃣ As the mixture thickens, reduce the heat to low and keep stirring to prevent lumps.
4️⃣ Keep stirring for about 15–20 minutes until the dough becomes firm and stretchy.
5️⃣ If it becomes too hard, add a little warm water and stir.
Step 3: Shaping & Serving Banku
1️⃣ Once cooked, use a spoon to scoop small portions.
2️⃣ Roll into smooth, round balls using a plastic wrap or wet hands.
3️⃣ Serve hot with your preferred soup, stew, or sauce.
Best Side Dishes to Eat with Banku
🔸 Grilled Tilapia with Pepper Sauce – A perfect match!
🔸 Okra Stew – Thick and flavorful.
🔸 Shito (Black Pepper Sauce) – Adds extra spice.
🔸 Groundnut (Peanut) Soup – Creamy and delicious.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Banku
❌ Not stirring constantly – Leads to lumps.
❌ Using high heat – Makes it burn at the bottom.
❌ Adding too much water at once – Makes it runny.
❌ Not fermenting the dough properly – Affects the taste.
Health Benefits of Eating Banku
✅ Rich in fiber – Good for digestion.
✅ Provides energy – Carbohydrate-rich for daily activities.
✅ Supports gut health – Fermented dough contains probiotics.
FAQs About Cooking Banku
🔹 How long does it take to cook banku?
➡️ About 20–30 minutes from start to finish.
🔹 Can I store cooked banku?
➡️ Yes, wrap in plastic and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat by steaming.
🔹 Can I make banku without cassava dough?
➡️ Yes! But the texture may be slightly different.
Final Thoughts
Banku is a staple dish in Ghana, loved for its unique texture and rich flavor. Follow this step-by-step guide to make soft, delicious banku at home! 🍽️