African Food and Art

This blog explores the wisdom of African proverbs, the depth of folklore, the beauty of art, the stories of history, and the flavors of timeless African food recipes.

African Spirit Tree Test

Africa boasts a remarkable array of unique trees, each showcasing distinct qualities that set it apart, much like the diverse personalities of people. The majestic Baobab, with its thick trunk and expansive canopy, symbolizes wisdom and resilience, while the vibrant Protea embodies courage and boldness with its striking flowers. Which tree do you resonate with? Are you as wise as the ancient Baobab or as daring as the brilliant Protea?

African Spirit Tree Test

Discover your true spirit by taking this engaging quiz designed to match you with an African tree that reflects your personality. Each tree symbolizes unique characteristics and qualities, so dive in to explore the connection between your spirit and these magnificent natural wonders. Get ready for a fun journey of self-discovery.

Earth love


Question 1: How Do You Handle Challenges?


A. You stand firm and face them head-on, using your wisdom.

B. You quietly help others and offer comfort.

C. You adapt quickly and find creative solutions.

D. You push through, no matter how tough it gets.


Question 2: What Do Your Friends Appreciate About You?


A. Your strength and guidance.

B. Your kind and caring nature.

C. Your unique and bright personality.

D. Your ability to survive tough times.


Question 3: If You Were A Plant, Where Would You Thrive?


A. In a place where you can stand tall and offer protection.

B. In a calm, sunny spot where you can nurture others.

C. In a bright and colorful garden where you can stand out.

D. In a harsh, dry place where you can show your strength.


Question 4: What Is Your Greatest Strength?


A. Your wisdom and patience.

B. Your gentleness and ability to heal.

C. Your boldness and beauty.

D. Your resilience and determination.


Question 5: How Do You Bring Joy To Others?


A. By sharing stories and offering advice.

B. By being a comforting presence.

C. By being creative and making others smile.

D. By showing others how to overcome challenges.


Results


Mostly A’s: You are the Baobab Tree.

You are wise, strong, and a natural protector. People come to you for guidance, and you are always there to lend a helping hand. Like the Baobab, you stand tall and firm, even in the toughest times.


Tree


Mostly B’s: You are the Aloe Vera.

You are gentle and kind, with a natural ability to heal and soothe others. Your friends rely on you for comfort, and you always know how to make them feel better. Like Aloe Vera, you bring calmness and care to everyone you meet.


Aloe vera from Africa

Mostly C’s: You are the Protea.

You are bold, unique, and not afraid to be yourself. You stand out from the crowd and bring color and excitement wherever you go. Like the Protea, you are strong and beautiful, ready to adapt to any situation.


Bold African trees


Mostly D’s: You are the Acacia Tree.

You are a survivor, tough and determined. No matter what life throws at you, you find a way to keep going. Like the Acacia, you thrive in hard times, showing everyone the power of resilience.


Important African trees


What Did You Get?


Did the results surprise you, or are they just right? Each African tree has its own unique strengths, just like every person. Celebrate what makes you unique, and remember that, like these fantastic trees, you have the power to grow and thrive in any situation.


Which African tree matches your spirit? Share your results with friends and let them also find their African tree spirit.


African Spirit Tree Test

African Spirt Tree Invocation of Protection 

Beneath the branches of the sacred tree, 
May its roots anchor me in strength, 
May its leaves shelter me in peace, 
May its spirit shield me from harm. 

As the wind dances through its branches, 
May my heart remain steady. 
As its shade cools the earth, 
May my soul find refuge. 

With each breath of the tree’s life, 
I am guarded, I am whole, I am free.

Week’s Best African Culture Posts

Kru Tribe Fine Boy Tradition

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Dream-nightmare story from the Kru people of Liberia: the newly chosen Fine Boy is temporarily celebrated with fanfare and pleasure. Kru Tribe Fine Boy Tradition Fascinating stories emerged during the Pepper Coast's glory days. Beginning in the 15th century, European traders established outposts along the Liberian coastline, drawn by its wealth of humans, spices, and other commodities.  Centuries later, in the 19th century, the American Colonization Society (ACS) founded settlements in Liberia and began journalling native stories.  Among these tales is a dream-nightmare story from the Kru people of Liberia, a story so intriguing it almost seems too good to be true because, in some ways, it is.   The Kru women periodically held elections to select a young, handsome man as their “Fine Boy.” The announcement of his selection was celebrated with a vibrant procession featuring music, singing, and dancing.  The newly chosen Fine Boy was placed at the front of the para...
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What is the difference between ugali and fufu

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How to make the popular African recipes Ugali and Fufu and what is the difference.  Ugali is a starch dish in Kenya and Tanzania made of fine cornmeal cooked in boiling water into a soft dough. Fufu is a thick, dough-like West African food made by boiling then pounding a starchy vegetable such as yam, plantain, or cassava or a mixture of starchy vegetables. The main difference between fufu and ugali is fufu is boiled first then pounded while ugali is simply boiled. Ugali recipe. Easy Ugali Recipe Prep time 5 minutes Cook time 30 minutes Total time 30 minutes Ingredients 4 cups finely ground cornmeal 8 cups water Directions Heat water to boiling in a saucepan. Slowly pour cornmeal into boiling water stirring continuously. Add more cornmeal if necessary until it is thick as soft bread dough. Serve immediately with vegetables, stew, or any dish you would use a spoon with to soak up the sauce, ugali is purposely bland tasting on its own. What is the difference between ugali ...
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Berbere Spice Popcorn Topping Recipe

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Berbere Spice North African Popcorn Topping Recipe The best African spice for fresh popped popcorn is Berbere, a flavorful and aromatic bold spice blend from North Africa you buy at the local supermarket or online. Berbere is known for its bold mix of spices, often including chili peppers, garlic, ginger, fenugreek, cardamom, coriander, cinnamon, and cloves.  Berbere brings a balance of heat, sweetness, and earthy depth to any dish including fresh popped popcorn. The spice mix symbolizes community and hospitality, often prepared at home with slight variations to suit family preferences. Its fiery yet balanced flavor profile mirrors the complex and vibrant food of North African culture . In cities across Africa, popcorn is a common street snack and is often sold in cinemas, at markets, and by roadside vendors.  Berbere Spice Popcorn Topping Recipe Ingredients ½ cup poped popcorn kernels  2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 teaspoon Berbere spice blend   1 teaspoon salt ...
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Keto Moroccan Dinner Cooked Slowly

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Slow Cooked Moroccan Kefta Lamb Meatballs   Keto Tagine Morocco is at the geographic and cultural crossroads between Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.   In Morocco, the term tagine refers to a slow cooked stew as well as the pot the stew is made in. Kefta Tagine Kefta Tagine is a keto-friendly Moroccan lamb meatball food dish fitted for your low-carb lifestyle. The slow cooking of the meatballs allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a fragrant, hearty keto meal. The star of the Kefta Tagine dish is lamb, symbolizing the richness of Moroccan hospitality. Lamb meat has been a staple in North African cuisine for centuries, with lamb being central to celebrations and religious festivals.  Ground lamb meat is spiced and shaped into small balls, known as kefta, a preparation that dates back to ancient Berber traditions.  The kefta are seasoned with cumin, paprika, and coriander, spices that have shaped Morocco’s history in the global trading of spices whi...
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