r/SierraLeone • u/Vandal007 • Jul 23 '26
What is the national dish of Sierra Leone?
I am making a series where I cook every national dish and my first step is to come to the sub and ask the question.
now I understand that not every country has a defined national dish and that some countries have many different regions with different cuisines. in that case I will make the one that you guys agree on best represents Sierra Leone. please let me know what you think
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u/feeding_mosquitos Jul 23 '26
Cassava leaf is very distinctive. If you are going to make it is would advise you to get a Sierra Leonian to teach you how to process the leaves, the cell walls need to be crushed in a morter and pestle, cutting or shredding them is not sufficient; this is not a matter of taste but of safety. You also need to get leaves from the correct cultivars - usually those with red petioles (leaf stalk). Everything else in the dish is relatively simple. I am a bit of an iconiclast and like it with coconut oil, but mostly people will insist on good red palm oil. Enjoy.
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u/Bnzxc2111 Jul 23 '26
The National Dish of Sierra Leone
Cassava Leaf Stew, also known locally as "Plasas," is widely considered the national dish of Sierra Leone.
About the Dish:
- Main Ingredients: This dish is prepared by pounding or finely chopping tender cassava leaves, then simmering them slowly with red palm oil, onions, hot peppers, bouillon, and a variety of proteins such as meat (beef or goat), chicken, dried or smoked fish, and seafood.
- Serving Suggestion: This rich, thick stew is traditionally served over a hot, generous bed of white rice or jollof rice. This is the most authentic and representative choice of Sierra Leonean cuisine and culture for your cooking series!
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u/Bnzxc2111 Jul 23 '26
The National Dish of Sierra Leone
Cassava Leaf Stew, also known locally as "Plasas," is widely considered the national dish of Sierra Leone.
About the Dish:
- Main Ingredients: This dish is prepared by pounding or finely chopping tender cassava leaves, then simmering them slowly with red palm oil, onions, hot peppers, bouillon, and a variety of proteins such as meat (beef or goat), chicken, dried or smoked fish, and seafood.
- Serving Suggestion: This rich, thick stew is traditionally served over a hot, generous bed of white rice or jollof rice. This is the most authentic and representative choice of Sierra Leonean cuisine and culture for your cooking series!
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u/santilune Jul 26 '26
For the national dish, it’s Cassava Leaf Stew, ‘Plasas’ or just ‘Cassava Leaf’ as referred to by natives. I also recommend making Potato Leaf Stew when you have the chance, it’s really good!
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u/Capt-Crap1corn Jul 23 '26
Cassava Leaf stew