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Photo of Ivy, author of The African Gourmet

About the Author

Ivy is the researcher and writer behind The African Gourmet, blending African food, history, and cultural storytelling. Her work is cited by universities, Wikipedia, major news outlets, and global food writers.

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From political insights through food to traditional wisdom and modern solutions - explore Africa's depth.

Kente Cloth Color Meanings

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African people are creative creating fabrics with color and meaning. Kente cloth has a long history of unique cultural elegance valued around the world over.  Discover more textile symbolism and quilt traditions in the African Quilting & Textile Crafts Hub . Kente Cloth Color Meanings  Kente Cloth Color Meanings Explained The making and trading of cloth have been vital elements in African culture. The first colorful kente cloth was worn by Otumfuo Nana Prempeh I, a former Ashanti king. African textiles unspoken language often provides a way of suggesting thoughts and feelings that may not or cannot be expressed in other ways and these cloths regularly move between the kingdoms of the earthly and the revered. Traditional Kente Cloth was black and white, however, the colors of black, red, gold and green modern kente cloth symbolize: ⚞ Black represents Africa ⚞ Red represents the blood of ancestors ...
Explore Africa: Food, History, and Culture

West Africa Côte d’Ivoire 28 Facts

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As the world’s top exporter of cocoa and raw cashew nuts, Côte d’Ivoire is the largest economy in the West African economic and currency union. 28 facts about Africa’s Côte d’Ivoire, her name, people and cocoa farming industry. Cote d'Ivoire is the world's largest producer and exporter of cocoa beans and a significant producer and exporter of coffee and palm oil. 1. Cote d'Ivoire pronounced coat-div-whar.  2. Ivory Coast name changed in 1986 to Cote d'Ivoire.  3. Cote d'Ivoire former name Ivory Coast reflects the intense ivory trade that took place in the region from the 15th to 17th centuries.  4. The French name Côte d'Ivoire literally means Ivory Coast. Côte d'Ivoire was unofficially known as Costa do Marfim by the Portuguese, côte des dents or the teeth coast and the Ivory Coast reflecting the trade in ivory.  5. Despite the official name change by the government, the African country of Côte d'Ivoire is still incorrectly referred to as...
Explore Africa: Food, History, and Culture

Which African countries border the Red Sea?

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The Red Sea separates Africa from Asia; on the Western shore of the Red Sea are the African countries of Egypt, Sudan, Eritrea and Djibouti. Learn about The Red Sea and the four African countries that border the Red Sea Red Sea Hotel in Egypt Which African countries border the Red Sea? The Red Sea separates Africa from Asia; on the Western shore of the Red Sea are the African countries of Egypt, Sudan, Eritrea and Djibouti. The first people known to explore the Red Sea were the Ancient Egyptians, who explored the area around 2500 BC while looking for commercial routes southward. Red Sea Facts Fishing in the Red Sea The Red Sea is an inlet of the Indian Ocean, located between Africa and Asia. This salty sea is just over 190 miles (300 km) across at its widest point, and about 1,200 miles (1,900 km) in length with an estimated average depth of 1,640 feet (500 m). With the Red Sea’s connection to the Mediterranean Sea via the Suez Canal, it is one of th...
Explore Africa: Food, History, and Culture

Green Banana Coconut Curry Recipe

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How to make Green Banana Coconut Curry. Cooking with unripe or green bananas, not plantains, is a quick delicious recipe mix of green bananas, coconut milk, curry and healthy vegetables. Green Banana Coconut Curry Recipe Green Banana Coconut Curry Recipe African Food Recipes by The  African Gourmet   Green bananas are delicious; they are starchy similar to potatoes. Green bananas are easily found at most farmer's markets and supermarkets.  Prep time: 15 min Cook time: 35 min Total time: 50 min Green Banana Coconut Curry Recipe Ingredients 3 green bananas cut in half 2 medium carrots, chopped 1 medium onion, chopped 1 large red tomato, diced 1 large green tomato, diced 1 teaspoon minced garlic 2 tablespoons ground curry powder 2 cups coconut milk Water for boiling Directions Cut off both ends of the unpeeled bananas and place in boiling salted water for 20 minutes. Remove the bananas and discard skins and drain...
Explore Africa: Food, History, and Culture

Senegal Culture History of Her People

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20 interesting facts about one of West Africa's countries in which more than 60% of the population is under the age of 25, Senegal her culture, history and people. Children of Senegal Senegal has a population of over 14.3 million ranking 73rd on the world’s most populous countries. Senegal's nationality is Senegalese using both the singular and plural form. Languages of Senegal may not surprise you since Senegal was once a French colony, the official language is French, and the other major languages are Wolof, Pulaar, Jola, and Mandinka. Wolof is a language spoken in Senegal, The Gambia, and Mauritania, and it is the indigenous language of the ethnic grouping of the Wolof people. Wolof is the most widely spoken language in Senegal even though the official language is French, by most Senegalese. Senegal Motto is "Un Peuple, Un But, Une Foi” "One People, One Goal, One Faith" Population without electricity is around 55% or 6.4 million, urban areas 90% of...
Explore Africa: Food, History, and Culture

How to Wrap a Gele African Head Wrap Step by Step Directions

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African Head Wrap How-to. In Africa, the head wrap worn by women of all colors, tribal and ethnic groups for special occasions, weddings, ceremonies, burials, church services, and special celebrations or for everyday wear. There are a variety of ways to wear a head wrap scarf. How to Wrap a Gele African Head Wrap Step by Step Directions Wrapping a head wrap is easy, just follow the steps below. There are countless styles of African head wrapping, it may take a couple of tries but you will be an expert in no time. How to wrap an African head wrap 1. Open the fabric, using an oblong piece of fabric at least 48 inches long and 24 inches wide works best. A large rectangular scarf also works well with this style of head wrapping. 2. Center the scarf at the nape of your neck making sure that both sides are of equal length. How to wrap an African head wrap step by step directions 3. Bring the ends forward and twist one s...
Explore Africa: Food, History, and Culture

Baboon Shepherd African Folklore

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Baboon Shepherd African Folklore Keekaegile The ancestors say, living a three days walk from the nearest village Dimbokro the sheepherder of northern Ethiopia lived. From the age of five, he was responsible for the goats and sheep in his family's herd. He spent exhausting days herding sheep and walking miles through the rocky land.  One day, Dimbokro went hunting. After hearing a strange cooing sound, he decided to investigate. He discovered a newborn baby Baboon abandoned in the woods. She was soaking wet wrapped in nothing but a large leaf. Dimbokro decided to raise the Baboon and named her Keekaegile after his favorite aunt. Dimbokro taught her everything he knew about sheep herding and soon, Keekaegile was made his chief shepherd because of her quick learning. Keekaegile remained devoted to his masters’ flock all day in the field and at night drove the sheep home riding on the back of a goat. Keekaegile hel...
Explore Africa: Food, History, and Culture

Curried Moroccan Vegetable Recipe

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The recipe for Moroccan vegetables is delicious when roasted and served with curry whole grain couscous. It features healthy vegetables and chickpeas.   Curried Moroccan Vegetable Recipe Curried Moroccan Vegetable Recipe Ingredients   2 small eggplants   2 tablespoons ghee or butter   ½ medium onion, finely chopped   ½ teaspoon ground cumin   ½ teaspoon ground coriander   ¼ teaspoon hot chilli powder   1 teaspoon curry powder   ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon   1 teaspoon salt   ½ teaspoon black pepper   2 large chopped tomatoes   ½ red pepper deseeded diced   1 medium zucchini thickly diced   14 oz can chickpeas, drained and rinsed   2 cups vegetable stock   2 tablespoons roughly chopped almonds   For the couscous   ½ vegetable stock cube   1 teaspoon curry powder   10 ounce package of wh...
Explore Africa: Food, History, and Culture

15 African Countries Currently at War

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African Countries Affected by Conflict and Violence Updated analysis of current conflicts affecting the African continent Explore more turning points in African history in the African History Hub . Note: Conflict situations change rapidly. This article has been updated with current information where available. Africa has 54 sovereign nations, and while many are experiencing peace and development, several continue to face significant security challenges including armed conflict, terrorism, and political violence. 🔄 Updated Perspective As of 2024, conflict patterns have shifted with some wars ending and new tensions emerging. Regional Impact Millions across Africa remain affected by violence and displacement despite peace efforts. Current Major Conflict Zones in Africa Active Conflict Areas (2024) Sahel Region: Burkina Faso...
Explore Africa: Food, History, and Culture

Fresh Strawberry Camel Milk Recipe

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Start with fresh camel milk from your trusted market, add strawberry syrup and fresh strawberries and enjoy a sweet delicious strawberry twist on camel milk. Fresh Strawberry Camel Milk Recipe Ingredients 3 cups camel milk 1/2 cup water 2 tablespoons strawberry syrup 1 pint fresh strawberries 1/2 cup white sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Directions In a large bowl add sliced strawberries and sugar, mash mixture and mix well then set aside. Add milk and water into a large pot and boil 5 minutes, add strawberry syrup and vanilla stir well. Remove from heat. Cool. Let sit for 2 hours in the refrigerator. Add a tablespoon of mashed strawberries to each glass of milk serve and enjoy. Did you know? Camel milk is a staple part of North African nomads for centuries and contains almost 10 times the iron than cow milk. More drink recipes to whip up today. Legal Drinking Age in Africa Ibwatu African Energy Drink Tzaneen Pawpaw Coconut Chil...
Explore Africa: Food, History, and Culture

Four Deadliest Terrorist Organizations in Africa

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Who are  Al-Shabaab, Al-Qaeda, Islamic State and Boko Haram deadly  terrorist  groups in Africa? Parts of Africa are under constant terrorist attacks and live with the constant threat of terrorism throughout their daily lives. According to Wikipedia list of 2017 terrorist attacks, the four groups responsible for the majority of the terrorist attacks or suspected are Al-Shabaab, Al-Qaeda, Islamic State and Boko Haram. Al-Shabaab Al-Shabab means The Youth in Arabic is a Salafist jihadist group based in East Africa, mainly Somalia.  Al-Shabaab means The Youth in Arabic is a Salafist jihadist group based in East Africa, mainly Somalia. Al-Shabab has staged numerous attacks in Kenya because it has sent its troops into Somali territory. In February 2010, the group is allied to al-Qaeda. Al-Shabaab has carried out more than 360 attacks in Somalia from 2006-2017.  On January 27, 2017, Al-Shabaab killed at least 57 soldiers in takeover of peacekee...
Explore Africa: Food, History, and Culture

Cocoyam Vegetable Pottage Recipe

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Cocoyam Vegetable Pottage Recipe African Recipes by African Gourmet   Vegetable cocoyam pottage is a thick dish of stewed vegetables that is a healthy and delicious African weeknight meal to make for your family. Prep time: 20 min Cook time: 25 min Total time: 50 min Vegetable Cocoyam Pottage Recipe Ingredients: 1 large cocoyam peeled and diced 3 large tomatoes, diced 2 handfuls bitter leaf 2 medium chopped onions 1 medium chopped red bell pepper 1 medium chopped green bell pepper 1 teaspoon allspice ½ teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon tamarind paste 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes 1 teaspoon minced garlic 2 cups vegetable stock Directions: Add all ingredients to a large pot, simmer until thick 25 minutes. Serve warm with rice or fufu.
Explore Africa: Food, History, and Culture

The Bird That Made Milk African Folklore

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African folklore stories with morals are folklore stories that teach a lesson. The Bird That Made Milk African Folklore story teaches it is better for your feet to slip than your tongue. Milk Bird Story of the Bird That Made Milk One year there was a great famine in the land. As the elders say, in the South African village of Tswe lived many, many people. The village was so large; five people had to share one grain of rice. There was in that town a poor man, by name Masilo, and his wife. One day they went to dig in their garden, and they continued digging the whole daylong. In the evening, when they returned home there came a bird and stood upon the house which was beside the garden, and began to whistle, and said "Masilo's cultivated ground, mix together." The ground did as the bird said. After that was done, the bird went away. In the morning, when Masilo and his wife went to the garden, they found their ground altogether undug. They looked at...
Explore Africa: Food, History, and Culture

Recipes Explain Politics

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🍚 When Rice Recipes Become Revolution

What if your grandmother's rice recipe could explain the Liberian Rice Riots of 1979?

"In Liberia, rice isn't just food—it's life, identity, and sovereignty. When the government proposed raising rice prices in 1979, they weren't just adjusting economics; they were threatening every grandmother's ability to feed her family according to traditions passed down for generations. The riot that followed wasn't about politics—it was about the sacred right to cook your family's rice recipe."

🍲 The Deeper Recipe:

  • Ingredients: Colonial trade patterns + Urbanization + Economic inequality
  • Preparation: Political disconnect from daily survival needs
  • Serving: 40+ deaths, regime destabilization, and a warning about ignoring cultural fundamentals

This is African Gourmet analysis: understanding how the food in grandmother's pot connects to the protests in the streets. The recipes we inherit carry not just flavor, but the entire history of our political and economic struggles.

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African Gourmet FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Why "The African Gourmet" if you cover more than just food?

Great question! While many associate "gourmet" exclusively with cuisine, its true meaning is "a connoisseur" – someone with refined taste and deep expertise. For over 18 years, I've served as a gourmet of African culture at large, savoring and presenting the continent's rich history, vibrant traditions, timeless wisdom, and contemporary stories with the same discerning palate one would apply to fine food. The name reflects my commitment to curating Africa's cultural wealth with authority and passion.

What makes The African Gourmet different from other culture sites?

With 18 years of consistent publishing, I offer depth and continuity that's rare online. I don't just report on African culture – I contextualize it, connecting traditional wisdom with modern realities, and food with folklore, politics, and daily life. It's a holistic view of Africa's past, present, and future, all through the lens of a seasoned cultural storyteller.

How do you choose what to write about?

My content selection is driven by a desire to showcase Africa's incredible diversity and challenge stereotypes. I balance covering foundational cultural elements (like proverbs and recipes) with timely analysis of current events (like the AGOA trade agreement). The goal is always to educate and illuminate the complex, dynamic realities of the African continent.

Do you focus on specific regions of Africa?

My coverage spans the entire continent – from North to South, East to West. While certain stories may focus on specific countries or regions, my mission is to represent the breathtaking diversity of 54 countries and thousands of cultures. I make a conscious effort to include both well-known and underrepresented cultures in my work.

Can I request a topic or contribute to the site?

I welcome thoughtful topic suggestions from engaged readers! While I maintain editorial control to ensure quality and consistency, I'm always interested in hearing what aspects of African culture you're curious about. Feel free to reach out through my contact page with your ideas.

How can I support The African Gourmet's work?

The greatest support is engaged readership – sharing articles you find valuable, participating in discussions, and helping spread cultural understanding. Following the blog and sharing it with others who would appreciate this unique perspective on Africa helps this 18-year labor of love continue to grow and reach new audiences.