The Story Behind the Smoke
Bole, pronounced “bo-leh”, is more than food — it’s a cultural symbol of Southern Nigeria, especially Port Harcourt. Every weekend, the streets come alive with the aroma of roasted plantains, spicy pepper sauce, and perfectly grilled fish. It’s a dish that unites families, friends, and even strangers under the joy of sharing.
The Port Harcourt Bole Festival, one of the largest food festivals in Africa, celebrates this smoky delicacy with music, dance, and thousands of happy food lovers. People travel from all over Nigeria and beyond just to get a taste of authentic bole served hot off the grill.
Though bole (plantain) is traditionally paired with grilled fish, you can also enjoy it with roasted yam, roasted potato, or even a delicious mixed combo plate for extra variety. However you serve it, it’s guaranteed to bring the taste of summer straight to your plate.
Order Your Summer Plate
Bole Recipe
Make your own Port Harcourt Bole at home:
- 🍌 Ripe plantains
- 🌶️ Blended pepper sauce
- 🐟 Grilled fish (mackerel preferred)
- 🧂 Palm oil, salt, seasonings
- 🧅 Optional: onions, utazi, garden egg
- Roast plantains till golden.
- Grill marinated fish.
- Blend and simmer pepper sauce.
- Serve with fish and sauce. Enjoy hot!
