Can anyone look at these babies and not smile? I mean, really. I love, love, love the joy pouring out of their faces. This picture could be used to replace depression medicine. And I just know it can help you do your taxes. That’s right. For anyone in the USA who has yet to file their taxes, take a moment to look at these babies, absorb the joy and peace. You’ll be calmer, nicer, and your brain won’t feel as much like scrambled jelly over the next 72 hours. That has to count for something.

Our Gambian menu features a special burst of fresh and local flavor – the spinach and green onions came from the very first day of the Cherry Street Farmer’s Market in Tulsa. Nothing like opening day at a farmer’s market, when all the goodies are vibrant, plump, and just waiting to be snapped, popped, and nibbled. I simply shut my eyes and imagined I was in Gambia. The temperature was about right – over 90 degrees.

West African Spinach with Groundnuts (Peanut Butter) [Recipe]
A nutty take on cooked spinach, typical of West Africa. Sliced red peppers and green onions add sweetness and crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, swap the bell pepper with a hot chili pepper.

Mango and Ginger Cream Parfaits [Recipe]
Celebrate fresh mangoes with a delicate ginger cream sauce. The ginger cream sauce is a standby from The Gambia’s former days as a British colony. For a more casual approach, forget the parfait and simply spoon the sauce over a bowl of fresh mango.

Lover’s Iced Ginger Lemon Tea (Gingembre) [Recipe]
Spicy, hot iced tea – this oxymoron is totally possible with the heat from freshly grated ginger. A bright burst of lemon juice tames the wild flavor.