🫔 Banku Calories & Nutrition Facts

Region: West Africa (Ghana) · From the AfroCal 112-dish nutrition database · Updated July 2026

Quick answer: a typical serving of Banku (1 ball / ~200 g) contains approximately 300 calories — 4 g protein, 64 g carbs, 2 g fat. Depending on the recipe and portion, expect a range of 250–400 kcal.

Banku is a Ghanaian staple of fermented corn and cassava dough, cooked into a smooth, slightly sour ball. Traditionally paired with okro soup, grilled tilapia, and hot pepper sauce.

Nutrition facts per serving

NutrientAmount (1 ball / ~200 g)
Calories~300 kcal (range 250–400)
Protein4 g
Carbohydrates64 g
Fat2 g
Fibre3 g

Values are estimates for a typical home-style preparation. Restaurant and party versions often run higher.

What changes the calorie count

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Frequently asked questions

Is banku better than fufu for weight loss?

They're comparable in calories. Banku's fermentation may aid digestion, and it's typically eaten with grilled fish — a leaner pairing than the oil-rich soups often served with fufu.

How many calories in banku and tilapia?

One ball of banku with a medium grilled tilapia and pepper sauce totals roughly 550–700 kcal, with an excellent protein contribution from the fish.