The last three people I’ve told that I’m cooking Togo have asked me what kind of food Togo is, not realizing Togo is a small west African country. So, friends, let’s learn together. Let’s put the Togolese spirit on our tables… along with a bit of their food.

We’ll get to the menu we selected in a moment. First, let’s discuss the ‘spirit’ part of the meal. This week, I sought out some inspirational words from Togo.

I had no choice. I’ve been feeling overwhelmed lately. For starters, I’ll be speaking in front of 3,000 people at the World Domination Summit in Portland, Oregon. No biggie (total biggie!!).  Second, I’m about to turn in the next 1/3 of my memoir (I foresee a few all-nighters to finish the pages up). Third, my daughter is about to turn four (when on earth did that happen?). Fourth, I’m about to celebrate my fifth year of marriage (seriously, where has the time gone?). Fifth, I just spent the weekend visiting with my BFF from high school. It’s been 8 years since we saw each other last, and now I miss her. Again.

Phew.

When I scanned all the proverbs for a bit of cheer, I found one that really spoke to me.

Perhaps that is the key. Even in the midst of stress and change, we must continue to forge on. We must continue, chin held high. After all, we can still see… even when crying. Do you agree?

Let’s consider this proverb from Togo, over a bite of food.

All recipes and the meal review will be posted throughout the week.

Grilled Togo Chicken [Recipe]

Grilled chicken legs that were marinated with onion, garlic, ginger, and red palm oil. Add some cayenne for heat, if desired.

Tomato Cornmeal Cakes with sauce | Djenkoume [Recipe]

Think polenta, or perhaps even sand castles… but with the signature flavor of red palm oil, tomatoes, onion, garlic, and ginger.

Oof, I feel better already!