Donate to Save Human History

The African Gourmet: Folktales, Cuisine & Cultural History

Explore Africa’s Heritage

Explore tales that carry Africa’s wisdom, courage, and humor. From river spirits to trickster animals, every story holds a lesson.

From hearty stews to fragrant grains, experience traditional African recipes and the history behind every dish.

Ancient African proverbs and modern interpretations — explore the wisdom passed down through generations.

Dive into Africa’s kingdoms, independence stories, and modern milestones that shape the continent today.

Palm Oil Nigerian Groundnut Stew

Nigeria has some of the most delicious food in the world. Its dishes are full of flavors and use many different ingredients and spices from its many cultures and areas. Popular meals like egusi with pounded yam and spicy jollof rice give a tasty experience that makes people happy. 

Peppery stews hold a significant place in the culinary traditions of Nigerian households, often serving as a centerpiece for daily meals. One popular variant of these rich stews is groundnut stew, known for its creamy texture and robust flavor. Groundnut stew is traditionally enjoyed with Fufu, a starchy side made from fermented cassava or plantains that complements the stew perfectly. 

In this variation of groundnut stew, chicken is incorporated to enhance its taste and nutritional value. The chicken absorbs the rich flavors of the spicy, nutty sauce, creating a hearty dish that is both comforting and satisfying. This combination not only showcases the vibrancy of West African cuisine but also highlights the use of locally sourced ingredients that are staples in the region’s diet.

Your recipe may not match our recipe, Each food has a story, showing Nigeria's rich history and the creativity of its people. The strong flavors, fresh ingredients, and special ways of cooking make Nigerian food very special and worthy of being recognized around the world.


Pounding FUFU to eat with groundnut stew

Peppery stews are commonplace everyday meals in Nigerian households. One such stew is groundnut stew. Groundnut stew is commonly eaten with another West African staple, Fufu; below is a variation of groundnut stew using chicken.

Palm Oil Nigerian Groundnut Stew

Ingredients
2 tablespoons palm oil
2 filleted chicken breasts
4 cups vegetable stock
1 medium onion, chopped
1 large bell pepper finely chopped
1 teaspoon minced garlic
16 oz can crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon red pepper flake
1/4 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon ginger
1/8 teaspoon cloves
1/4 teaspoon cardamom
1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup uncooked rice

Directions
Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onions, bell pepper and garlic about 3 minutes. Add chicken, tomatoes, vegetable stock, peanut butter, and spices. Reduce heat to low and simmer 15 minutes. Add rice cover and simmer 15 minutes.

Did you know
For many Africans, stew and fufu is a classic meal similar to soup and crackers in the USA.

Also
Nigeria is located in Western Africa, bordering the Gulf of Guinea, between Benin and Cameroon. Nigeria is slightly more than twice the size of California, a state in the U.S.

The three largest ethnic groups in Nigeria are the Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba. Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa and the eighth-most populous country in the world.

How Are You Feeling Today? Find an African Proverb or Story to Match Your Mood

How Are You Feeling Today?

Type or tap a mood. Your storyteller returns a proverb, mini-folktale, recipe, cooking activity, and a cultural note.

⋯ ✦ ⋯

Folklore Meets Science

Folklore Meets Science
African stories that explain the universe

African Gourmet FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The African Gourmet blog about?

The African Gourmet explores African food, history, and culture through recipes, folktales, and proverbs written for curious readers worldwide.

Who writes The African Gourmet?

The blog is written and curated by Ivy, a lifelong historian and storyteller who highlights Africa’s culinary and cultural richness.

How can I find African recipes on this site?

Use the “African Recipes” category or explore posts like African Recipes for regional dishes and ingredients.

Can I share or reprint your articles?

You may share articles with attribution and a link back to The African Gourmet. Reprinting in print or commercial use requires permission.

Where can I learn more about African proverbs and folklore?

Explore our African Proverbs and African Folktales sections for timeless wisdom and stories.

African Gourmet Newsletter

Light African snack spicy popcorn

Join The African Gourmet Newsletter

Join our African Gourmet Newsletter to get new folktales, recipes, and history every month.

Includes a light snack idea every month 🍊

African Studies

African Studies
African Culture and traditions