Welcome to Vol 103 of The Spread!

The Spread is a weekly edit of the best stories and global news on Africa(ns) influencing mainstream culture.

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This is NOT a drill. From a playful prank to a delicious reality, DÒDÒ is coming and here to shake up your taste buds! Join the waitlist to be first to taste DÒDÒ.

Now, on to the real peel...

SPECIAL FEATURE

🎉 Introducing DÒDÒ: A Plantain-Infused Rum by Marmalade

What started as a playful April Fool's prank has turned into something real and delicious—DÒDÒ is no longer just a joke, it's happening for real! Since that fateful day in April, we've been working tirelessly behind the scenes and now we can finally share some exciting updates with you.

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⏳ Trivia Time

In West Africa, particularly in Nigeria and Ghana, what is the name of the popular dish made by frying ripe plantains, often served as a side dish or snack?

A) Akara
B) Kelewele
C) Dodo

Scroll to the very bottom for the answer.

ICYMI

🧭 A Marmalade Guide To...

Plantains: The Versatile Cousin of the Banana You Need in Your Kitchen

If you think bananas are the only fruit worth peeling, it’s time to get acquainted with their African cousin, the plantain. This sturdy, versatile fruit has been a staple across Africa for centuries and it’s gaining fans worldwide thanks to its endless culinary possibilities and deep cultural roots.

Let's get into it!

What We're...

📰 Reading: An African History of Africa by Zeinab Badawi. In this fascinating book, Badawi guides us through Africa’s spectacular history – from the very origins of our species, through ancient civilisations and medieval empires with remarkable queens and kings, to the miseries of conquest and the elation of independence.

Image Courtesy of Habeeb Akande / X

🎧 Listening to: Asake's New Album 'Lungu Boy' on Spotify. This album showcases Asake’s evolving artistry and deep connection to his roots. The album’s release was preceded by the singles “Wave,” featuring British rapper Central Cee, and “Active,” featuring American rapper Travis Scott.

📺 Watching: Zeinab Badawi's event recap at The Conduit. Delve into the rich tapestry of Africa's history with Zeinab Badawi, President of SOAS University. Discover the narratives often overlooked in modern curricula, brought to life by Zeinab’s extensive knowledge and passion.

🎟️ Booking: Suspended States Exhibition by Yinka Shonibare CBE. This is an exhibition in which Western iconography is reimagined and interrogated, at a moment in history when Nationalism, protectionism and hostility towards foreigners is on the rise. It's free to book!

👀 Eyeing: Zorelle Gin by Hi Spirits Wine Club. Zorelle is Ireland's pioneering Pan-African inspired spirit, where the zest of zobo + sorrel in the Emerald Isle. Hi Spirits Wine Club is more than a wine and spirits community—it's a dynamic platform that intertwines exceptional wine experiences with a celebration of diversity and heritage

Image Courtesy of Hi Spirits Wine Club / Instagram

👏 That's a wrap!

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Trivia Answer: C) Dodo

Plantains are the ultimate culinary shapeshifters, packing the starch of a banana with way more attitude. In tropical regions like West Africa and the Caribbean, they’re a kitchen staple, showing up in dishes whether they’re green and firm or ripe and sweet. Green plantains bring the crunch when fried or boiled, while ripe ones turn into mouthwatering dodo in Nigeria or maduros in Latin America.

Beyond their flavour, plantains are nutrition powerhouses, rich in carbs, vitamins, and minerals. Whether as a sidekick or the main event, they effortlessly glide between savoury and sweet, making them a beloved ingredient across cultures.

"Who wouldn’t fall for a food that’s as adaptable as it is delicious?"
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Shameless plug: Join us on this exciting journey as we bring DÒDÒ to life. Sign up now for exclusive updates, early access to pre-orders and a special invite to our launch party. Be among the first to taste the unique blend of rich plantain flavours with a smooth, sophisticated rum.
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