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African cowpeas black-eyed peas facts and information

Black-eyed peas also known as Cowpeas or niébé originated in Africa and are widely grown around the world. Niébé, a variety of cowpea is a drought-resistant bean that thrives even in the dry, arid soils of the Sahel.

The niébé bean improves soil quality in the Sahel by fixing nutrients since its nitrogen requirements low; its roots form nodules that contribute to the fixation of atmospheric nitrogen.

The Sahel of Africa is a huge dry area and includes northern Senegal, southern Mauritania, central Mali, northern Burkina Faso, southern Algeria, Niger, northern Nigeria, central Chad, central and southern Sudan, northern South Sudan, Eritrea, Cameroon, Central African Republic and northern Ethiopia.

African cowpeas black-eyed peas facts and information


Cowpeas, especially the Niébé variety of cowpea is grown by many women small farmers, throughout West Africa.


What exactly are cowpeas? African cowpeas black-eyed peas facts and information.


Black-eyed peas or cowpeas originated from West Africa.

Throughout Africa black-eyed peas are known as cowpeas.

Cowpeas are the most important seed legume in the tropical savanna areas of Africa.

Black-eyed peas or cowpeas are grown and eaten extensively in Asia, South and Central America, the Caribbean, the United States, the Middle East and Southern Europe.

Cowpea plays an important role in the livelihoods of many rural families in Africa, Latin America and Asia by providing nutrients deficient in cereals.

Cowpeas provide the bulk of proteins and vitamins such as folic acid, micro-elements such as iron, calcium, zinc and also carbohydrates in many food deprived areas of the world.

Cowpea is an important staple crop in sub-Saharan Africa, especially in arid Savannahs of West Africa and the Sahel.

Cowpeas are a valuable source of vegetable protein, vitamins as well as valuable income.

Western and Central Africa is the leading cowpea producing regions in the world producing around 64 percent of the estimated 3 million tons of cowpea seed produced each year.

Nigeria is the world’s leading cowpea producing country; Senegal, Niger, Ghana, Mali, Cameroon and Burkina Faso are significant also significant producers.

Niébé is a variety of cowpea grown by many women small farmers, throughout West Africa.

Black-eyed peas get their name from their characteristic appearance of a black dot in the middle of a cream colored bean.

The black-eyed pea is believed to have been introduced to the United States through the African slave trade.

Black-eyed peas are said to bring good luck when eaten on New Year's Day in the Southern US. The peas represent good luck, and are served with collard greens that represent money.

Black-eyed peas are full potassium, calcium, magnesium, and iron.


Cowpeas or black-eyed peas are popular in Africa and in the South USA.

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In 2023, we mark 16 years of dedicated service in discovering, collecting, and sharing African history and heritage. Our mission is to promote a sense of pride and appreciation for this rich cultural legacy and important educational resource.



So, my adventurous friend, fasten your seatbelt and prepare for a wild and downright mind-blowing journey through Africa's 54 food nations. You're about to discover a whole new world of cultures, traditions, and practices that'll leave you craving more. Since 2007, The African Gourmet has highlighted Africa through its food and culture. Contact us culture1africangourmet@gmail.com

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Indulge in our delectable food dishes that serve as a delightful and flavorful gateway to the rich diversity of the African continent.


Moroccan Pastilla Pie

Moroccan Pastilla Pie




If you're hesitant about trying African food, let me assure you that Moroccan Pastilla Pie offers a delightful culinary adventure. Moroccan Pastilla, or Bastilla or B'stilla, is a traditional Moroccan dish typically served as a special occasion or festive dish. It consists of layers of flaky pastry filled with a mixture of spiced meat, usually chicken or pigeon, along with almonds, eggs, and a hint of sweetness from ingredients like cinnamon and powdered sugar. Traditional Moroccan Pastilla recipes often include a layer of scrambled eggs. Feel free to add beaten eggs to the chicken and almond mixture during the cooking process if you prefer. The pastry is then baked until golden and crispy.



Moroccan Merguez Sausage

Moroccan Merguez Sausage




Merguez is a spicy North African sausage traditionally made from ground lamb or beef and flavored with spices such as paprika, cumin, garlic, and chili. It is often grilled or pan-fried and served with bread or Merguez is commonly used in dishes like tagines, couscous, and stews.