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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.

African Proverbs about taking unnecessary risks

African Proverbs about taking unnecessary risks

African Proverbs about taking unnecessary risks

The English proverb a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush warns against taking unnecessary risks.

It is better to hold onto something one has than to risk losing it by trying to get something better. There are African proverbs that speak of foolish people. African Proverbs also warns against taking unnecessary risks.

Yoruba fight night in Nigeria

African Proverbs about taking unnecessary risks

African Proverbs about taking unnecessary risks

Do not bargain for a cut that is still hidden in a bag.
A chicken that lives among vultures will soon start smelling like one.
Distant water does not extinguish the fire.
African Proverbs about taking unnecessary risks
Although the grass looks even, there are paths in between.
Those who do bad things, also die in a bad ways.
A dog that chews bones does not chew a piece of metal.

African Proverbs about taking unnecessary risks

A cat does not trade in fried fish.
Do not throw the piece of yam after the goat.
What will small birds overlook the bigger ones will carry.
African Proverb

The person who is not patient cannot eat well-cooked dishes.
You do not stay in a river and then continue abusing the mouth of the crocodile.
Now that you know about African Proverbs about taking unnecessary risks, learn what makes an African proverb a classic African proverb.

What is an African Proverb


What is an African Proverb

Getting to Know more about Africa

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Hurricanes are Angry African Ancestors
Highest Temperature and Lowest Temperature in Africa
About African Night Running

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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Light African snack spicy popcorn

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African Studies

African Studies
African Culture and traditions