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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.

Taking Love, Family and Kindness for Granted African Proverbs

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📁 African proverbs

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Occasionally we all are taken for granted. Igbo African proverbs teaching not to take family, kindness and love for granted. 



African proverbs teaching not to take family, kindness and love for granted.

By no means should anyone take family, kindness and love for granted, they are life's greatest and most fragile gifts. Love is the greatest gift; we can give to one another. Family is the greatest gift given to us. Kindness is the greatest gift we can give to the world.

"The bird with a long beak still cannot peck out anything on its own head." Igbo proverb meaning everybody needs somebody but if you take love, family and kindness for granted, you won't have anybody.


The African Gourmet explores how African food, history, and science intertwine. Here, a plant is a healer, a story is a map, and the kitchen is a laboratory. I’m Ivy — a writer raised by historians, now sharing Africa’s wisdom from the U.S. through cookbooks, cultural research, and storytelling. If you’re curious about where flavor meets memory, you belong here.

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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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Powering your African connection with with Korean food and culture.

Academic Mentions: Featured by Emory University and University of KwaZulu-Natal

African Gourmet Newsletter

Explore Our African Hubs

Explore Africa through puzzles, stories, recipes, proverbs, and history — all from one creative collection by The African Gourmet.

African Studies

African Studies
African Culture and traditions