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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.

How to Cut a Mango | African Gourmet Basics

How to Cut a Mango | African Gourmet Basics

A fresh mango has one large, long, flat seed in the center of the fruit. Once you learn how to work around the seed, cutting a fresh mango is simple. Good rule to follow when choosing the perfect mango to cut is do not focus on the color of the mango since it is not the best indicator of ripeness. Squeeze the mango gently. A ripe mango will give slightly.

How to cut fresh mangos

1. Always judge when a mango is ripe by feel.
2. Wash the mango before cutting with warm water
3. After cutting thin slice from 1 end of mango, rest mango on trimmed bottom and cut off skin in thin strips, top to bottom.
4. Cut down along each side of flat pit to remove flesh.
5. Trim any remaining flesh off sides of pit. Once fruit is peeled and sliced, it can be chopped as desired.
Spicy Curry Mango Coconut Relish
Ingredients

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

Directions

Mix all ingredients in a bowl and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator at least 2 hours before serving. Use Spicy Curry Mango Coconut Relish in place of relish, mustard, ketchup and salsa.

 
Spicy Curry Mango Coconut Relish
Spicy Curry Mango Coconut Relish

More easy fresh fruit breakfast, lunch and dinner recipes to make right now so you never have to eat or prepare a boring meal again.

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  2. How to Cook With Banana Leaves
  3. Seafood Green Banana Chutney
  4. Fruit of African Horned-Melon Explained
  5. Growing Apples In Africa

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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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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African Studies

African Studies
African Culture and traditions