Shito

Shito

Shito (SHEE-toh)

Black Chilli Sauce

Prep Time 1 hour
📈 Difficulty Medium
👥 Servings
12
🔥 Calories 130 kcal

A fiery, dark, oil-based chilli sauce packed with dried shrimp, ginger, and garlic — Ghana's most essential condiment that transforms any dish.

Nutrition & Info

120 kcal per serving
Protein 4.0g
Carbs 6.0g
Fat 10.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

dairy-free gluten-free nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ shellfish

Equipment Needed

blender heavy pot glass jars

Presentation Guide

Vessel: small jar or ramekin

Accompaniments: rice, kenkey, banku, yam

Instructions

  1. 1

    Blend onions smooth. Heat oil in a heavy pot over medium heat.

  2. 2

    Fry blended onions until deep brown, about 20 minutes, stirring often.

  3. 3

    Add garlic, ginger, and tomato paste. Cook 5 minutes.

  4. 4

    Add dried chilli flakes and ground dried shrimp. Stir well.

  5. 5

    Reduce heat to low and cook for 30 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

  6. 6

    Add anise and salt. Cool and store in sterilised jars. Keeps for months.

💡

Did You Know?

Every Ghanaian abroad packs jars of shito in their luggage — it is the one taste of home that nothing else can replace.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • blender
  • heavy pot
  • glass jars

Accompaniments

rice, kenkey, banku, yam

The Story Behind Shito

Shito is the signature condiment of the Ga people of Accra, originally developed as a way to preserve the abundant dried seafood of the coast in oil. It has become Ghana's national sauce, found on every table from street stalls to fine restaurants.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed condiment served with every meal 📜 Origins: Ga tradition, coastal Ghana

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