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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.

So said the Elders Au fait decisions African proverbs

Africa influenced the world in the area of thought and wisdom with proverbs. Much of the language and thought of Africans are expressed in proverbs.

Au fait proverbs about making decisions, in some African cultures, when a proverb is quoted, it is preceded with a statement “So said the elders...

Odenkyem, the crocodile, Adinkra symbol for prudence and practicality.
Odenkyem, the crocodile, Adinkra symbol for prudence and practicality. 

Reading and collecting African proverbs from your elders is the perfect place to begin your African culture journey.

So said the Elders Au fait decisions African proverbs

The mouth is responsible for discord among people.

A relative's slap hurts more than a stranger's.

A thing that comes does not beat a drum.

That which comes without work is a curse.

You should cross a stream before the floods come.

To ask is the desire to know the way.

Don't put the key to happiness in someone else's pocket.

The frown on the face of the goat will not stop it from being taken to the market.

To wash a donkey's tail is loss of time and soap.

The disobedient fowl obeys in a pot of soup.

The person who is not patient cannot eat well-cooked dishes.

The past years are in moonlight, the years to come are in darkness.

Even the best of women has still a devil's rib in her.

Under a glove the ugliest hand is hidden.

Where there is much learning, there is much fun too.


More African Proverbs from the motherland.

  1. Your Attitude African Proverbs
  2. What is an African Proverb
  3. Do not invite evil to sit at your table then cry
  4. Mean Coworkers African Proverbs
  5. Having Faith African Proverbs

Chic African Culture and The African Gourmet=

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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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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