Your Peanut-Free Passport to West African Street Food

Navigating West African street food with a peanut allergy can feel like walking through a culinary minefield. From groundnut soup in Ghana to maafe stew in Senegal, peanuts are deeply woven into the region's vibrant food culture. But fear not—discovering safe, authentic flavors is entirely possible with smart strategies:

Why It's Tricky: Peanuts (often called "groundnuts") appear in unexpected places—hidden in sauces, marinades, fried snacks like kulikuli, or as thickeners in stews. Language barriers and bustling street stalls make asking about ingredients challenging.

Smart Dining Tactics:

1. Learn Key Phrases: Memorize critical terms like "Màpó m̀báp" (no peanuts in Yoruba) or "Pas d'arachides" (French, common in West Africa). Explain allergies emphatically.
2. Seek Naturally Safe Options: Opt for peanut-free staples like jollof rice (confirm no added nut paste), suya spice-rubbed grilled meats (ask for nut-free seasoning), or fried plantains.
3. Cross-Contamination Caution: Choose vendors cooking to-order versus pre-mixed dishes. Watch for shared fryers or utensils.

How mm food Eliminates Guesswork:

• Instant Menu Translation: Scan any handwritten sign or online menu—mm food translates ingredients into your language, flagging hidden peanut terms.
• Allergy Filter: Set "peanut-free" in your dietary profile. The AI cross-references dish descriptions, warning about risky items like groundnut-simmered soups before you order.
• Save Favorites: Bookmark verified peanut-free vendors in Lagos, Accra, or Dakar for stress-free repeat visits.

West African street food thrives on tradition, but safety shouldn’t be a compromise. With preparation and mm food’s real-time insights, you can savor spicy, peanut-free suya skewers or fragrant coconut rice bowls—confidently embracing the feast.