Chic African Culture Africa Factbook

Did you know?

1. No African country names begin with the letters F, H, I, J, O, P, Q, V, W, X, or Y.

2. Africa is surrounded by water but by definition Africa is not an island because Africa is a continent.

3. The Republic of the Congo is one of the most urbanized countries in Africa.

Coconut Relish for Pork and Seafood

Naturally sweet coconut has rich fragrant flavor and this coconut relish makes an exciting savory relish to dip seafood.

The coconut industry is an important source of employment for most farmers in rural communities. The coconut palm is throughout coastal Africa. It is a very versatile crop requiring little care.

Coconut trees are often referred to as the Tree of Life and have many uses from food, fiber, fuel, water and shelter, every part of the coconut palm is used. They mature within 2 – 7 years and the first fruit appears one year after flowering.

One tree can yield on average 70-150 coconuts per year remaining productive for 50 – 100 years. With all those coconuts available Africa is brimming with coconut recipes. Quick and easy coconut relish recipe is a great accompaniment for pork and seafood.

Coconut trees are often referred to as the Tree of Life

The sweet flavor of this coconut relish creates an interesting garnish to seafood and pork.

Coconut Relish for Pork and Seafood

Ingredients
2 cups coconut flakes
1 tablespoon red pepper flake (optional)
1 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon brown sugar
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon lime juice
1 cup plain yogurt


Directions
Mix coconuts and all ingredients in a bowl and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator at least 2 hours before serving.

Chic African Culture and The African Gourmet=

Africa is surrounded by water but is not an island, here are a few African Island facts.

Madagascar is the 4th large island in the world and is located in the Indian Ocean supporting a unique biology, about 90% of its plants and animals are found nowhere else on earth.

Composed of 155 islands, Seychelles is Africa's smallest country. By far the largest island is Mahe, home to about 90% of the population and the site of its capital city of Victoria.

Cabo Verde has a strategic location 310 miles or 500 km from the west coast of Africa near major north-south sea routes; important communications station; important sea and air refueling site.

Africa is surrounded by water but by definition Africa is not an island because Africa is a continent. Continents can not be considered islands because of their size and also by historic definition since many people who study geography define islands and continents as two different things.

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Being African in America I have grown up learning about different ethnic cultures. My father and mother are historians of African culture and history and their influence expanded my activities to several best-selling cookbooks, magazine columns, self-branded products, and a popular African culture and food blog.

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