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Gari Fortor: Ghana’s Flavor-Packed One-Pot Wonder

Simple, spicy, and soul-satisfying, Gari Fortor is one of those dishes that captures the heart of Ghanaian home cooking. Made with gari (grated, dried cassava) and stirred into a rich tomato sauce, this dish is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. Perfect for busy weeknights, quick lunches, or student life on a budget, Gari Fortor is a true staple across the country.

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What Is Gari Fortor?

Unlike the cold-soaked gari you may know from gari soakings, Gari Fortor is savory and hot—closer to a stir-fry than a porridge. It starts with a vibrant tomato sauce made from blended tomatoes, onions, and chili pepper, to which gari is added and mixed until fluffy and flavorful. The result? A delicious, satisfying dish that can be eaten solo or paired with fried fish, eggs, or meat.

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Ingredients You'll Need

• 2 cups gari
• 4 fresh tomatoes (or 1 cup blended canned tomatoes)
• 1–2 medium onions (1 for the sauce, 1 for garnish)
• 1–2 fresh chili peppers (adjust to your spice level)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• Salt to taste
• Optional: bell peppers, carrots, peas, sardines, or canned mackerel

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How to Make Gari Fortor

Step 1: Make the Tomato Sauce
In a pan, heat oil and sauté sliced onions until soft. Blend the tomatoes and pepper, then add to the pan. Cook on medium heat until the sauce thickens and the oil begins to separate (about 10–15 minutes). Season with salt to taste.

Step 2: Add Optional Ingredients
If using veggies or canned fish (like sardines or mackerel), stir them into the sauce at this stage.

Step 3: Mix in the Gari
Reduce the heat to low. Slowly add the gari to the sauce, stirring constantly to combine. Add a small amount of water or broth if it feels too dry. Mix until everything is well incorporated and the gari is evenly moistened.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Top with sliced onions or cooked eggs if desired. Serve hot with fried fish, grilled chicken, or avocado slices.

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Cultural Significance

Gari Fortor is often referred to as a "student’s best friend" thanks to how quick and affordable it is. But it’s not just for students—families across Ghana prepare it as a fast, satisfying meal that uses pantry staples. The dish showcases how gari—a humble ingredient made from fermented cassava—can transform into something delicious with just a few ingredients.

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Final Thoughts

Easy to whip up, endlessly adaptable, and full of bold Ghanaian flavor, Gari Fortor is comfort food at its finest. Whether you're new to West African cuisine or looking for a nostalgic bite from home, this dish delivers every time.

Try it once, and you’ll understand why it’s loved by so many.

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