15 Very Basic Foods From the Hungriest Countries in the World

Hey there, hungry traveler! Do you yearn for a unique gastronomic experience, a break from your typical mealtime routine? Follow us as we uncover 15 incredibly simple yet wholly satisfying foods from some of the world’s hungriest nations. You’ll...

15 Very Basic Foods From the Hungriest Countries in the World

Hey there, hungry traveler! Do you yearn for a unique gastronomic experience, a break from your typical mealtime routine? Follow us as we uncover 15 incredibly simple yet wholly satisfying foods from some of the world’s hungriest nations. You’ll be amazed at how these elemental food items are crafted to provide sustenance, nourishment and yes, an unexpected twirl of pleasure to the discerning palate!

Garri of Nigeria

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Garri is a light-yellowish flour made from cassava tubers and it is a popular West African food. It is a common survival food in Nigeria where it is consumed in different forms – made into dough, drunk with water or eaten with soup.

Posho of Uganda

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In Uganda, Posho or Ugali, a straightforward staple food made from maize flour and water is prevalent. It’s generally served alongside protein sources like beans or meat, however, the impoverished would normally eat it plain due to their limited resources.

Nshima of Zambia

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The stable food in Zambia is Nshima, a kind of porridge made from ground maize. It is eaten hand with vegetables and sauces. In some poor communities, it is consumed by itself, often in smaller quantities than needed.

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Dal Bhat of Nepal

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Dal Bhat, a traditional meal of lentil soup and rice, is a staple food in Nepal. While city dwellers have the luxury of adding various side dishes, the poor mountain communities often have to make do with this base meal alone.

Boiled White Rice of Southeast Asia

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In various Southeast Asian countries, impoverished communities primarily rely on boiled white rice. Sometimes it’s eaten alone, but usually, it’s consumed with small amounts of cheaper vegetables or sauces if affordable.

Dhal Puri of Mauritius

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In Mauritius, the common cheap dish is Dhal Puri. It is a bread filled with ground yellow split peas, cumin, and turmeric. This filling yet affordable dish helps the poor survive the tough times.

Motogo Wa Ting of South Africa

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Motogo Wa Ting or ‘malnutrition flour’ is a staple food commonly consumed by South Africans living in poverty. It’s a mixture of different grains and legumes providing much needed nutritional benefits.

Potato Soup of Ukraine

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Ukraine’s Potato Soup or ‘kartoplyanyk’ is a common hearty meal for the poor population. Potatoes being an affordable vegetable, makes the soup a popular choice for those struggling with financial difficulties.

Manioc of Brazil

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Manioc, or cassava, is a versatile root vegetable extensively consumed by Brazilians living in extreme poverty. It can be boiled, baked, or turned into flour for bread, making it an incredibly adaptable survival food.

Maftoul of Palestine

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Maftoul, Palestinian couscous, is a labor-intensive dish often made in poorer communities. They are hand-rolled pearls of wheat, steamed and served, providing affordable but nourishing meals.

Molokhia of Egypt

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Molokhia is a traditional soup made with jute mallow leaves, consumed commonly by Egypt’s poorer population. It’s often coloured with lots of vegetables for added nutritional benefits, depending on what’s affordable.

Pigeon Peas of Malawi

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Pigeon peas are a vital food crop in Malawi, usually made into a thick pigeon pea soup paired with nsima or maize porridge. This nutritious and satisfying soup is a staple for the impoverished.

Cornmeal Porridge of Jamaica

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In Jamaica, cornmeal porridge fills the stomachs of those who cannot afford more costly meals. This dish is not just filling, but also offers some nutritional benefits.

Flatbreads of Afghanistan

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Flatbread or naan is a basic staple food in Afghanistan. As it requires only flour, water, and a heat source, it’s a common go-to meal for those living in poverty.

Mud Cookies of Haiti

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In some parts of Haiti, scraping by means consuming mud cookies – a mixture of dirt, salt, and vegetable shortening. It’s a desperate measure borne from extreme poverty and food insecurity. Although eating mud may be harmful to human health, for some Haitians, these cookies are the only affordable staple.

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