8 Person
20 Min
30 Min
50 Min
Benachin is a popular Gambian dish that is prepared in one pot alone. It consists of rice, vegetables, and meat that are all cooked together.
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Benachin, also known as one-pot rice, is one of the most iconic traditional dishes of The Gambia. The name Benachin comes from the Wolof language and literally means “one pot,” describing both the cooking method and the philosophy behind the dish. Rice, vegetables, and meat are cooked together in a single vessel, allowing flavors to blend deeply while making the meal efficient and economical. Historically, Benachin developed as a communal dish suited to large households, celebrations, and everyday family meals. Its ingredients vary depending on availability, season, and region, reflecting The Gambia’s agricultural landscape and cultural diversity. Benachin is closely related to other West African one-pot rice dishes, such as Jollof Rice, but is distinguished by its heavier use of vegetables and the practice of removing and re-layering components before serving. Today, it remains a cornerstone of Gambian cuisine and a symbol of shared meals and hospitality.