If you're looking to explore new flavors and ingredients, visiting your local African supermarket is a great place to start. African cuisine is known for its diverse and vibrant flavors, and there are many delicious foods and ingredients that you can try. Here are 10 must-try African foods and ingredients to stock up on at your local African supermarket:

Plantains: Plantains are a staple food in many African cuisines, and they are often cooked and served as a side dish or snack. They have a starchy, slightly sweet flavor and can be cooked in a variety of ways, including frying, grilling, or boiling.

Cassava: Cassava is a starchy root vegetable that is commonly used in African cooking. It has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor, and it is often grated and used to make fufu, a popular African dish that is similar to mashed potatoes.

Fonio: Fonio is a type of ancient African grain that is gaining popularity for its nutritional value and versatility. It has a nutty, slightly sweet flavor and can be cooked and eaten as a porridge, used as a base for stews, or ground into flour for use in baking.

Dried red peppers: Dried red peppers are a common ingredient in African cooking, and they are often used to add heat and flavor to dishes. They have a smoky, spicy flavor and can be used whole, crushed, or ground into a powder.

Peanut butter: Peanut butter is a popular ingredient in many African dishes, and it is often used to add richness and depth of flavor to stews and sauces. It can be purchased in a smooth or chunky consistency and can be used as a spread, a dip, or a cooking ingredient.

Ginger: Ginger is a popular spice in African cuisine, and it is often used to add warmth and flavor to dishes. It has a pungent, spicy flavor and can be grated and used fresh, or dried and ground into a powder.

Cumin: Cumin is another popular spice in African cooking, and it is often used to add depth and warmth to dishes. It has a strong, earthy flavor and can be used whole, toasted, or ground into a powder.

Paprika: Paprika is a mild, sweet-flavored spice that is commonly used in African cooking. It is made from ground red peppers and is available in different levels of heat, from mild to spicy.

Turmeric: Turmeric is a spice that is commonly used in African cooking, and it is known for its bright yellow color and distinctive flavor. It has a slightly bitter, earthy taste and is often used to add color and flavor to dishes.

Coconut milk: Coconut milk is a popular ingredient in many African dishes, and it is known for its rich, creamy texture and slightly sweet flavor. It is made from the grated flesh of mature coconuts and is often used to add richness and flavor to stews, soups, and curries.

Overall, there are many delicious and interesting foods and ingredients to try at your local African supermarket. From plantains and cassava to ginger and coconut milk, there are many flavors and textures to explore and enjoy. Stock up on these ingredients and start experimenting with African cuisine in your own kitchen.