by Dennis Augustine
At the end of a 15-mile bike ride early this morning, Bill and I stopped at the Saratoga Farmers Market. The only thing I purchased was fresh orange juice and a container of Peanut Butter Stew from the Nopnala Foods kiosk. In its original version it can best be described as a rich, hearty and flavorful, melody of 100% Sonoma County grass fed beef with tomatoes, onions, veggies (yams) and a coconut peanut sauce that can be served over white or brown rice or grain of choice like couscous, quinoa, or polenta. I chose the vegetarian version with yams. In its original form, it is considered one of "The Gambia’s" National dishes.
In Gambian culture, where according to my son Jason who has traveled there, the people are warm and friendly, “Mama Approved” refers to food or products that meet the high standards of traditional, home-cooked meals—especially those prepared with care, authenticity, and wholesome ingredients. In many African cultures, including The Gambia, mothers and grandmothers are seen as the guardians of culinary traditions, passing down recipes and cooking methods that emphasize quality, freshness, and cultural heritage
As a small business owner and entrepreneur who goes by his nickname Hajj (original name is Alhagi Alieu Daffeh) he considers it an honor and a privilege to visit and support the farms of @tresorwomenwarrior in The Gambia. They are courageous and hardworking women who grow their own food, that not only help to support their families and communities but to teach the less fortunate people to become self sufficient and understand their role in their communities and country as a whole.
