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.

All About Voodoo African Batá Drums In Yoruba Africa

Batá drums are the voice of the Voodoo religion, batá are talking drums speak to and for the Yoruba people. Voodoo African Batá Drums In Yoruba Africa. Batá drums are the iconic symbol and sound of the Voodoo religion. The word voodoo comes from the West African word vodun which means spirit.


Rhythms of Voodoo Batá Drumming.


Rhythms of Voodoo drumming

Batá drums are the voice of the Voodoo religion, batá are talking drums. Voodoo drumming and ceremonies are intimately linked in Africa.


Batá drums are a double-headed drum shaped like an hourglass with one cone larger than the other. The Batá drum is a percussion instrument used primarily for the use of religious or semi-religious purposes for the native culture from the land of Yoruba, located in Nigeria.

Batá drums are also the iconic symbol and sound of the Vodun or Voodoo religion. The talking drums express the histories of the West African Yoruba Oyo. Vodun is one of the world's oldest known religions.

It is commonly believed by academic researchers that these original drums were played to frighten those who would both make war with Oyo and those citizens who would oppose the king. Early Batá performances were likely held under the cover of darkness and often preceded parades of frighteningly dressed masqueraders called Egungun and Paraka.

Egungun and Paraka mean "powers concealed," is a Yoruba full body masquerade costume that provides an important connection between the worlds of the living and the dead. The body masks completely covered the dancer concealing their identity.

The common symbols were elephants, an ancient Yoruba emblem of power, lions representing bravery, crocodiles representing fierceness. Yoruba’s understand their existence as living in and acknowledging two worlds, the physical and supernatural. It is considered wise to acknowledge each sphere.


Together we build awareness that boost harmony, education, and success, below are more links to articles you will find thought provoking.

  1. Where is Shashamane Ethiopia the African Rastafarian Promised Land
  2. Cooking with shea butter oil
  3. Worst serial killers recorded in history are women
  4. Indigenous healers and plants used
  5. Night running illness or magic
  6. What is back to Africa

Chic African Culture and The African Gourmet=

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