Who wins: Nigerian Monica with dodo, or Ghanaian Banku and Tilapia?
Grilled Fish in West Africa: Two Legends, One Passion
West Africa is famous for bold flavours and legendary street food. Two iconic dishes—Nigerian Monica (grilled, garnished fish with dodo) and Ghanaian Banku and Tilapia—stand out as the ultimate party pleasers and comfort food.
But when it comes to the ultimate grilled fish experience, which one truly wins? Let’s explore both—and let you decide!
Nigerian Monica: Grilled Fish with Dodo
What is Monica?
Monica is Nigeria’s signature grilled fish—whole tilapia, croaker, or catfish, marinated in hot pepper sauce, charcoal-grilled until smoky, and lavishly garnished with onions, peppers, and tomatoes. It’s always served with crispy, sweet dodo (fried plantain).
Why Nigerians Love Monica:
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Spicy, smoky, and juicy fish
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Sweet plantain fries balance the heat
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Perfect for sharing at bars, beaches, or family gatherings
Shop fish, plantains, and pepper sauce at Surulere Foods
Ghanaian Banku and Tilapia
What is Banku and Tilapia?
A classic Ghanaian meal featuring marinated grilled tilapia, paired with banku—a tangy, stretchy dough made from fermented corn and cassava—and fiery shito (pepper sauce).
Why Ghanaians Love Banku & Tilapia:
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Bold, umami-rich grilled fish
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Fermented banku brings a unique tang
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Street food favourite from Accra to London
Shop banku flour, fresh fish, and shito sauce at Surulere Foods
Monica vs. Banku & Tilapia: Head-to-Head
| Nigerian Monica & Dodo | Ghanaian Banku & Tilapia | |
|---|---|---|
| Main Protein | Grilled, garnished fish | Grilled tilapia |
| Side | Dodo (fried plantain) | Banku (fermented corn/cassava dough) |
| Sauce | Spicy pepper mix, onions, tomatoes | Shito (spicy pepper sauce) |
| Texture | Crispy-sweet & spicy | Tangy, stretchy, and smoky |
| Where to Eat | Nigerian parties, bars, homes | Ghanaian street food spots & celebrations |
| Best With | Cold drinks, good company | Festivals, family gatherings |
So, Who Wins?
It’s impossible to choose!
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If you love spicy, smoky fish and sweet dodo, Nigerian Monica wins your heart.
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If you crave fermented flavours and Ghanaian street food, Banku and Tilapia takes the prize.
Why not try both?
Create these West African classics at home with fresh fish, plantains, spices, banku mix, and sauces from Surulere Foods.
Tell Us Your Favourite!
Are you #TeamMonica or #TeamBanku?
Share your pick in the comments or tag us on Instagram with your home-cooked creations!
Order all the ingredients for Monica and Banku & Tilapia—delivered to your door anywhere in the UK!
👉 Shop African groceries at Surulere Foods
The real winner is YOU—enjoying the best of Nigerian and Ghanaian cuisine, whenever you want!