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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.

Had a Bad Day? African Proverbs to Help Soothe Your Soul

African Proverbs to calm your restless spirit when you've had a bad day.

African Proverbs to Help Soothe Your Soul

African proverbs of love and hope for a rotten day.



Nelson Mandela smiled on the outside and inside
Those who want rain must also accept the mud. - Ghanaian proverb


Smooth seas do not make skillful sailors. - Malawi proverb


Those who want peace make their own peace. - Zambian proverb


Africa Seychelles St-Pierre Islet photo by Didier Baertschiger
If you think you are too small to make a difference try sleeping in a room with a pesky Mosquito - African Proverb


The sun does not forget a village just because it is small. - Mali proverb


However long the night, the dawn will break.  - African Proverb

Good friends photo by Georgie Pauwels

The best bed a person can sleep on is peace. - Somali proverb


Cutting off the head is not the cure for a headache. - Yoruba proverb


Return to old watering holes for more than water; friends and dreams are there to meet you. - African proverb


African Proverbs to Help Soothe Your Soul


African Proverbs to Help Soothe Your Soul

Have flowers and African proverbs kinda life.

African proverbs bring people together, read and study more proverbs, quotes, and sayings from the African continent.
African Proverbs Are Often Difficult To Understand
Telling African Folklore Stories in East Africa
Proverbs are the official language of the African Nation
Monday Morning African Proverb Quotes
Prepare the Mind for Elevation
Have flowers and African proverbs kinda life.
My story is rooted in a lifelong immersion in African history, guided by my parents—two dedicated historians for whom culture was not just a profession, but our home's heartbeat. Now living in the United States, I carry their legacy forward as a writer, researcher, and self-proclaimed "universe junkie" obsessed with the vast tapestry of the African experience. This obsession isn't just theoretical. It's the fuel for a variety of creative endeavors. I've channeled it into best-selling cookbooks that bring ancestral flavors to modern tables, magazine columns that explore our rich heritage, and a popular blog that serves as a dynamic hub for anyone eager to connect with African culture and cuisine. My work is driven by a simple belief: to understand who we are, we must explore where we come from. It's a journey I'm honored to share.

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

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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