Donate to Save Human History

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.

Yam Belt Vegan Sautéed Yams

In the yam belt of West Africa, Nigeria alone produces 71 percent of the yams and there are over 600 varieties of yams and 95 percent of these crops are grown in Africa. 

Yams are a staple tuber vegetable of West African countries with 177 calories in one cup of yams. 

A classic dish of vegan sautéed yams from the yam belt of Africa lightly boils yam chunks before cooking in olive oil, garlic, and spices. Sautéed yams are a delightful alternative to potatoes and so much trendier.

Yam Belt Vegan Sautéed Yams

Prep time: 10 min 

Cook time: 10 min 

Total time: 20 min 

Perfect Vegan Sautéed Yams are the best West African Food recipe 


Yam Belt Vegan Sautéed Yams.

Ingredients 

1 large yam 

2 garlic cloves, minced 

2 whole bay leaves 

1 small bunch parsley, chopped 

2 tablespoons olive oil 

Sea salt to taste 


Directions 

Cut yams into chunks. Bring a large pan of water to the boil, and then cook the yams for three mins. Drain then place yams onto a paper-lined tray to cool. 

When ready to serve, heat olive oil, garlic, and bay leaves in a large non-stick frying pan until you can feel a strong heat rising. 

Add the yams in a single layer. Turn the heat to medium-high, so that the yams sizzle, but do not stir until they start to brown underneath. 

Turn yams evenly two or three times until nicely browned all over. Sprinkle with sea salt, chopped parsley and serve your new favorite vegan side dish to friends and family.


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

  1. Curried Tanzanian Coconut Okra Recipe
  2. Frikkadelle an Afrikaner dish of meatballs
  3. Senegalese Chicken Vermicelli
  4. Chadian Steamed Honey Cassava Buns
  5. Cameroon Smoked Bonga Fish Stew

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.

⋯ ✦ ⋯

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

Join The African Gourmet Newsletter

Join our African Gourmet Newsletter to get new folktales, recipes, and history every month.

Includes a light snack idea every month 🍊

African Studies

African Studies
African Culture and traditions