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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.

Charcoal in Africa — Fuel, Deforestation, and Daily Life

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Charcoal in Africa — Fuel, Deforestation, and Daily Life Charcoal and other solid biomass fuels are used in 70% of households in sub-Saharan Africa . Petroleum fuels and electricity remain costly for most families, making charcoal an essential fuel despite its environmental impact. Charcoal Is King in Africa In Bujumbura, Burundi’s capital city , charcoal is the primary cooking fuel across all social classes. Although it often costs more than liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), households continue to rely on it because alternatives remain unaffordable or unavailable. Charcoal is big business. Africa produced 32 million tons of charcoal in 2017 , about 62% of the global total, with most used for cooking. According to the World Health Organization, around 2.6 billion people worldwide still cook with open fires or simple stoves using biomass, coal, or kerosene. Production takes place mostly in rural and peri-urban areas to supply cities, generating income ...

Eco-Friendly Dining: Enjoy Angolan Funge Without Utensils

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Eat Funge with Your Fingers to Cut Plastic Waste Choosing to enjoy Angolan Funge with your fingers instead of a fork and spoon is an eco-friendly practice. Traditionally, diners use a small piece of Funge itself to scoop up soups and stews, eliminating the need for utensils. Manufacturing metal or plastic cutlery requires large amounts of energy and raw materials. By skipping utensils, you conserve resources and support sustainable habits. Discover simple tips to reduce plastic waste . Eating with Funge honors Angola’s culinary heritage while reducing waste and preserving the planet. Embracing this mindful way of dining is both environmentally responsible and culturally respectful. Explore traditional African food habits that help the planet . Funge: Angola’s Classic Side Dish Funge Funge is a traditional Angolan side dish made by cooking cassava’s history an...

Cairo Name Origin’s

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The city of Cairo has an interesting history behind its name. Its name is derived from the Arabic word al-Qāhirah which translates to The Victorious. Cairo's name is derived from the Arabic word al-Qāhirah, which means The Victorious. It was named after the city's establishment in 969 CE during the Fatimid Caliphate, signifying the region's conquest. Cairo is home to the world's oldest functioning university, Al-Azhar University, founded in 970 CE.  Cairo, the capital city of Egypt, has a population of over 20 million people. It is interesting to note that approximately 95 percent of this population resides within a distance of 12 miles or 20 km from the Nile River and its delta.  The Nile River has been a lifeline for the people of Egypt for thousands of years, providing water for irrigation, transportation, and other purposes. The delta region of the river is particularly fertile and supports a large number of people engaged in agriculture and fishing. However, vast a...

Aso Rock: Nigeria's Iconic Landmark with Mystical Dwellers

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Explore the legend of Aso Rock Dwellers! This iconic Nigerian landmark, a massive granite formation, is shrouded in mystery with tales of mystical beings influencing the nation's politics. Aso Rock Dwellers Aso Rock is a Single Massive Granite Rock  Aso Rock is located near the Presidential Complex and the Nigerian National Assembly in Abuja, Nigeria's capital. Aso Rock is a single massive rock formation; it is not a collection of rocks but a singular geological formation composed primarily of granite. Aso Rock is known for its rock dwellers, imposing size and unique appearance, making it one of the notable natural landmarks in Nigeria. Aso Rock is a monumental granite formation in Abuja, Nigeria, serving as a symbol of the city and a cultural landmark. Aso Rock is a beloved icon because of its profound cultural and symbolic significance to the Nigerian people. The rock's sheer height and geological prominence make it a significant natural landmark in the region. Aso Rock i...

Libya was under Italian control from 1911 to 1943

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Italy ruled over Libya for over three decades, from 1911 to 1943, under the leadership of important figures like Mussolini, Victor Emmanuel III, and Italo Balbo. This long period of control significantly impacted the country's history, society, and politics. Gurgi Mosque Serving as the King of Italy from 1900 to 1946, Victor Emmanuel III played a significant role in endorsing and overseeing Italy's colonial ventures, including the occupation of Libya. His support for Mussolini's regime facilitated the implementation of colonial policies in North Africa. As the leader of Fascist Italy from 1922 to 1943, Mussolini pursued an expansionist agenda that included the conquest and colonization of Libya. His authoritarian rule and aggressive foreign policies shaped Italy's approach to colonialism and influenced events in Libya during this period. Italo Balbo was an Italian aviator and politician who served as Governor-General of Italian Libya from 1934 to 1940. Under his adminis...

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.

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African Studies

African Studies
African Culture and traditions