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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.

Smoked Fish Okra Stew

Smoked Fish Okra Stew

Okra is an ingredient in many soup and stew recipes throughout Africa. The young leaves and flowers of the okra plant are edible; also, okra leaves are frequently boiled or used dried ground into a powder to thicken soups and stews.


Okra tastes like okra having a unique flavor and texture. Okra naturally releases a gooey material called mucilage when cut, mucilage makes okra a natural thickener to soups and stews. Any type of acids such as tomatoes, vinegar or lemon juice will counteract the mucilage of okra.

30-Minute Smoked Fish and Okra Stew Recipe

Smoked Fish and Okra Stew Recipe
Smoked Fish Okra Stew.

Ingredients
5 ounces any smoked fish
3 cups sliced okra or two handfuls small okra
1 handful okra leaves chopped
2 ripe tomatoes diced
2 onions finely chopped
2 garden eggs or one small eggplant chopped
1 hot pepper finely chopped
¼ cup palm oil
4 cups water


Directions
Heat palm oil over medium heat in a large pot, add onions and garlic. Add remaining ingredients and simmer for about 30 minutes. Serve over fufu or rice.


Did you know?
Abelmoschus esculentus or Okra is a plant native to Africa and a member of the hibiscus family.


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.

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Folklore Meets Science
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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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African Studies

African Studies
African Culture and traditions