What to eat and drink in Cameroon: dishes, etiquette and dietary tips

The core dishes to try are Ndolé (bitterleaf with peanuts), Poulet DG (chicken with plantain), Koki (black‑eyed‑pea cake), Poisson braisé (grilled fish) and Soya (beef skewers). Eat them at lunch or dinner in busy restaurants or street stalls. If you are allergic to peanuts or shellfish, skip Ndolé and many sauces; halal travellers can find Soya and fish dishes in Muslim‑run stalls.

Ndolé – bitterleaf stewed with ground peanuts, often with beef or prawns; served with plantain or miondo. (has: beef, seafood; veg: ask)

Poulet DG – fried chicken braised with ripe plantain, carrots and peppers; a party favourite. (has: chicken; veg: no)

Koki – steamed cake of black‑eyed‑pea paste in red palm oil, wrapped in leaves. (veg: ask)

Poisson braisé – whole fish grilled with pepper‑herb paste, eaten with miondo or fried plantain. (has: seafood; veg: no)

Soya – spiced beef skewers grilled at night stalls, served with raw onion and chilli. (has: beef; veg: no)

A typical lunch at a local restaurant costs about 5 USD (≈ 4 EUR). Street food portions (e.g., a serving of Soya or a piece of Poisson braisé) are around 2 USD. Mid‑range restaurants charge 8–12 USD for a three‑course meal.

Street food is safe when the vendor cooks the dish in front of you and serves it hot. Look for a steady queue and a clean cooking area. Avoid pre‑cooked items left out for long periods, especially those containing peanuts or dried crayfish.

Wash your hands before eating; most dishes are eaten with the right hand. Guests are served first and should take a modest portion. The host usually pays the bill.

Vegetarians can rely on beans, koki, plantain and BHB. Halal travellers find beef skewers (Soya) and fish dishes in Muslim‑run stalls. Gluten‑free diets are supported by cassava and plantain, but avoid wheat‑based breads.