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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.

No Meat Thick Rice Stew

Everyday African Rice Receipe

West African no-meat thick rice stew is a hearty rice stew with a rich blend of fresh vegetables, brown rice, palm butter, and vegetable stock, creating a warm and nourishing soup that will make you feel right at home. If you have leftovers, fear not - this soup can be enjoyed again later, but you may consider adding a bit of vegetable broth or water to thin it out when reheating.

Palm butter is an ingredient widely used in African cuisine due to its distinctive rich, earthy flavor and creamy texture. Consider using coconut cream, peanut butter, or cashew cream if you want a substitute. However, remember that the taste may differ, and you should adjust the quantities according to your taste preferences. 

However, if you can access palm butter, it is recommended to use it as it has a unique flavor that is both rich and earthy. It has a mild nutty taste with a hint of sweetness that adds a great depth of flavor to any dish.

West African no-meat thick rice stew

No-Meat Thick Rice Stew from West Africa


Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 20 mins

Total Time: 35 mins


Ingredients

2 cups uncooked brown rice

1 large onion chopped

3 green spring onions chopped

3 garlic cloves minced

1 large ripe tomato diced

1 large green bell pepper diced

1 large yellow bell pepper diced

1 large red bell pepper diced

2 hot peppers diced

4 cups vegetable broth

¾ cup all-purpose flour

1 small can of tomato paste

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon ground black pepper

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons palm butter


Directions

In a large pot over medium heat, add broth and butter. Bring to a boil, then stir in rice. Cover and remove from heat. Mix well with flour, salt, and pepper in a small bowl with 1/2 cup of water. Melt palm butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, add vegetables, and saute until slightly firm, about 5 minutes. Reduce heat to low, then add flour mixture, a few tablespoons at a time, into the pot of broth, stirring continuously to avoid clumps. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes. Add vegetables to the broth mixture. Cook 10 minutes longer and serve as a main dish with bread or a side dish with fish or chicken.

Cooking rice

Eat and Enjoy No-Meat Thick Rice Stew from West Africa

Indulge in a delicious bowl of West African thick rice stew that is both easy to prepare and fits right within your budget. This amazing dish is completely meatless, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer vegetarian meals. With its rich texture and exotic blend of flavors, this stew is sure to make your taste buds dance with joy.

The African Gourmet Food Charity

Since its inception in 2007, Chic African Culture and The African Gourmet have been on a flavorful journey to showcase Africa's vibrant food and culture. At The African Gourmet Food Charity division, our mission goes beyond nourishment; it's about empowering African communities through the art of cuisine and sustainable food practices. We're dedicated to honoring and preserving Africa's diverse culinary traditions while championing health, economic growth, and environmental responsibility. Through education and support for local ingredients, we cultivate a robust food ecosystem that enriches both individuals and the entire community. Our vision is a future where everyone enjoys access to wholesome, culturally significant meals and the promise of a brighter tomorrow.

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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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