The African Gourmet

When one thinks of the marvelously nourishing and stimulating virtue of cocoa is Africa also thought of? Cocoa has always grown in many parts of the African tropics. The cacao-tree grows wild in the forests of tropical regions but is also one of the tender trees of tropical growth. Africa produces well over 50% of the world’s cocoa. Yes Africa. Ironically many Africans have never tasted the finished chocolate product due to the high cost of producing the product. Cocoa is used to make the world’s most beloved sweet treat, chocolate. No other natural food product can be said to serve equally well as food or drink, or to possess the nourishing and stimulating properties as cocoa. The next time you have a chocolate craving or you give a gift for a special occasion to your sweetheart, chances are that piece of chocolate originated from Africa.

Some major African countries cater to tourists with resort areas and serve food such as pepperoni pizza. In Africa, a distinction is made between tourist food and local food just as it is in the United States. In the United States there are tourist eateries and then there are local eateries. The Gambia just like many other African countries cover the gamut when it comes to restaurant food including sushi restaurants. I’m sure your thinking, “sushi in Africa?” Yes there are numerous sushi restaurants in Africa along with French pastry shops. A staple in the African country The Gambia is the hearty stew supakanja. Supakaja is to The Gambia what chicken soup is to American households in the United States.

Supakanja

The Gambia

Yield 5-6 servings

Ingredients:

3 filets of any smoked fish

4 cups fresh okra

3 cloves garlic crushed

3 cups vegetable stock

One 14 ounce can tomatoes

Pepper to taste

Directions:

In a large pot on medium heat, add oil then sauté garlic one minute. Drain tomatoes. Add all ingredients together in the large pot and simmer covered for 30 minutes. Serve warm.