Koki And Plantain

Koki and plantain is one of the proud signature dishes of the Oroko people of Meme Division in Cameroon — a dish that carries history, identity, and community in every bite. It’s simple in ingredients but powerful in meaning, and it stands as one of the most recognizable foods from the Oroko clan.

What Koki Is

Koki is a traditional Cameroonian pudding made primarily from:

• Koki beans (a type of cowpea similar to black‑eyed peas)

• Red palm oil

• Crayfish

• Spices and seasoning

• Banana leaves for wrapping

The beans are peeled, washed, and ground into a smooth paste. Palm oil gives it the iconic golden‑yellow color, while crayfish adds a deep, savory aroma.

The mixture is wrapped in banana leaves and steamed until it becomes firm — almost like a savory cake.