DIY Shito: Making Ghana’s Flavorful Black Pepper Sauce at Home

 

 

When it comes to Ghanaian cuisine, the flavors are as diverse as the landscapes that paint the country. One culinary gem that truly stands out is “Shito,” a spicy and savory condiment that adds a kick to your taste buds. In this article, you’ll learn how to make shito on your own in the comfort of your home. Shito can be made in different ways using different recipes but this simple process works just as much.

 

 

Ingredients:

 

10-15 dried chilies

1 cup dried fish or shrimp

2 large onions

6 cloves of garlic

1 cup oil

2 tbsp powdered crayfish (optional)

1 tsp each of dried thyme and grated ginger

Salt to taste

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Steps:

• Prepare Chilies: Soak chilies in warm water for 15-20 mins, then blend into a smooth paste.
• Prep Fish/Shrimp: Remove bones from dried fish, break it into small pieces, or clean and prep the shrimp.
• Sauté Onions/Garlic: Sauté chopped onions and minced garlic in some palm oil until golden brown.
• Add Fish/Shrimp: Combine the fish/shrimp with onions/garlic and cook until well incorporated.
• Introduce Chili Paste: Add the blended chili paste to the mixture and stir well. Cook for a few minutes.
• Incorporate Remaining Ingredients: Mix in the rest of the oil, grated ginger, thyme, and powdered crayfish. Stir thoroughly.
• Simmer and Season: Let it simmer for 20-30 mins on low heat. Season with salt to taste.
• Cool and Store: Allow it to cool, then transfer to clean, airtight containers.
• Enjoy Your Homemade Shito: Use it as a dipping sauce, marinade, or drizzle it over Ghanaian dishes.

 

 

 

Create your own homemade Shito, capturing the essence of Ghana’s flavorful cuisine. With these simple steps, savor the authenticity and spice up your meals with this versatile black pepper sauce, connecting with the heart of Ghanaian flavors from your own kitchen. Happy cooking and enjoy the taste of Ghana!