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The African Gourmet: Folktales, Cuisine & Cultural History

Explore Africa’s Heritage

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Lightly Sweetened Cocoa Tea Biscuits

African food is a fusion of many different nations. One influence over the centuries is that of the European colonialists.


Lightly Sweetened Cocoa Tea Biscuits

As legend has it, Anna Maria Russell, the seventh Duchess of Bedford is said to have made afternoon tea time a fashionable practice when she complained of "having that sinking feeling" during the late afternoons.

From this time on, a pot of tea and a light snack in the middle of the afternoon became a part of European traditions. One very popular light snack is that of the lightly sweetened cocoa tea biscuit or cookie.

Lightly Sweetened Cocoa Tea Biscuits


Ingredients

2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
3 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons sugar
4 tablespoons of powdered cocoa
2 tablespoons of lard
2/3 a cup of milk or enough to make a firm but not a stiff dough


Directions


Sift all the dry ingredients together, rub in lard with the tips of the fingers. Stir in the required amount of milk. Turn out on lightly floured board, roll or pat out the desired thickness, place close together in a pan and bake 350 degrees 10-12 minutes



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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.

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