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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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Start Here: Explore Africa’s Living Knowledge

Learn Africa through science, stories, recipes, proverbs, history, and geography — interconnected, just as life is.

Good Communication African Proverbs

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It is no secret that people who maintain good relationships are also good communicators. Good communication is an essential skill in community relationships, but it takes practice. Communication does not work when two people speak at the same time ~ African Proverb. A hand, which gives also, receives in return - with love from your ancestors. Wisdom can be gotten from anyone, it is shared not a monopoly of one person - with love from your ancestors. Words are responsible for cutting down a big tree; the ax is only an instrument - with love from your ancestors. More African Proverbs from the motherland. Your Attitude African Proverbs What is an African Proverb Do not invite evil to sit at your table then cry Mean Coworkers African Proverbs Having Faith African Proverbs
Explore Africa: Food, History, and Culture

Easy Sweet Fig Baklava Recipe

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Sweet fig baklava is phyllo dough stacked with figs, honey, and nuts to make a sweet traditional North African dessert.    Learn how to make this easy sweet fig baklava recipe. The rich and captivating history of cooking with figs in North Africa adds a unique touch to the traditional African dessert, sweet fig baklava. Figs have been a cherished ingredient in North African cuisine for centuries, with their cultivation dating back to ancient times. The fig tree holds great cultural significance in the region, and its fruits have been prized for their sweet and luscious flavor. The use of figs in culinary creations, such as baklava, showcases the deep-rooted connection between North African culture and the bountiful offerings of nature. Sweet fig baklava is a delightful dessert that combines layers of delicate phyllo dough with the natural sweetness of figs, the richness of honey, and the crunch of nuts. The recipe for this traditional African treat is surprisingly simple, all...
Explore Africa: Food, History, and Culture

African Tall Tale Folklore Why Cats Hate Rats

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African Tall Tale Folklore Why Cats Hate Rats Cats are famous for killing rats but why? The African folklore Why Cats Hate Rate explains the reason cats and rats have an unspoken oath of being sworn enemies. African Tall Tale Folklore Why Cats Hate Rats Ansa was King of Calabar for fifty years. He had a very faithful cat as a housekeeper, and a rat was his houseboy. The king was an obstinate, headstrong man, but was very fond of the cat, which had been in his store for many years. The rat, which was very poor, fell in love with one of the king's servant girls, but was unable to give her any presents, as he had no money. At last, he thought of the king's store, so in the nighttime, being quite small, he had little difficulty, having made a hole in the roof, in getting into the store. He then stole corn and pears, and presented them to his sweetheart. At the end of the month, when the cat had to render her account of the things in the store to the king, i...
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.

Understanding Africa through the stories our food tells • Since 2006

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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.