#african grocery shop

[allfoodsafrica]

How to Make Authentic African Foods with Suya Spice: A Flavorful Guide

Introduction

Spices form the foundation of authentic African food, adding both depth, aroma, and spicy flavour to the dishes. Such flavours have found appeal across the world, transcending national borders and continents. One such spice called Suya spice is responsible for such a reputation, mainly found and used in West African nations, particularly in Nigeria. The spice is known for its smoky and bold flavour and is mainly used in street savoury foods and goes well with meat. This article shall explore the key aspects of Suya spice and discuss various ways to use it. 

Suya Spice: Key Ingredients and Uses

Originating in West Africa, Suya spice has mainly found its acceptance in Nigerian cuisines. The spice has a smoky and nutty flavour and is made from peanut powder. For this, the spice is also referred to as Yaji which in the Hausa language means a dry powder made from ground peanuts. Suya spice has a complex, fiery flavour with both the warm nutty foundation and gingery spicy essence. This makes it one of the prime reasons it is used in street food forming an important part of authentic African food. 

Key Ingredients

Suya Spice is an amalgamation of different herbs and spices. The key ingredients of Suya spice are as follows: 

Kuli-kuli (Peanut paste)

Ginger

Locust Bean

Cayenne Pepper

Garlic powder

Onion powder

Cloves

Uses

Marinating and Grilling 

Suya spice is mainly used for marination and grilling purposes especially in authentic African foods involving meat. Its fiery flavour has its appeal in Nigerian street food with chicken and goat. 

Dry Rub

Before grilling, Suya spice is used for a dry rub to enhance flavours, or sprinkled over vegetables before they go on the grill. 

Basting 

One other use of suya spice is basting the meat while it grills on the barbeque. The spice must be mixed with olive oil to make it taste better. 

Seasoning

The spice can be used for seasoning root vegetables, cauliflowers, sprouts, and broccolini. It can also be used for seasoning rice, noodles, and stews. 

Authentic African Foods and Recipes with Suya Spice

For cooking authentic African foods, here are some of the recipes someone can cook with Suya spice: 

Grilled Beef Skewers

Ingredients 

Beef: 500 grams 

Suya spice: 4 tablespoons 

Peanut or vegetable oil: 1 tablespoon

Salt: 1 tablespoon

Onion: 1 sliced 

Tomato: 1 sliced

Skewers: For grilling 

Recipe

Generously coat the beef in oil and spices and let it marinate for a few hours. 

Put the beef onto the skewers. 

Grill the meat on a charcoal grill or in a high-temperature oven.

Serve the beef with tomato and onion garnish. 

Suya Chicken

Ingredients

Chicken: 4 thighs or wings

Suya Spice: 3 tablespoons

Oil: 2 tablespoons

Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon

Garlic paste: 1 teaspoon 

Recipe 

Set the chicken up for marination with suya spice, oil, lemon juice, and the garlic paste. 

Grill the chicken either on the barbecue or in the oven at 200 degrees Celsius for 20 to 25 minutes. 

Serve it with a side dish of coleslaw. 

Suya Spiced Popcorn

Ingredients

Popcorn kernel: half a cup

Melted butter: 2 tablespoons

Suya spice: 1 to 2 tablespoons

Salt to taste

Recipe

Pop the kernel inside a microwave 

Toss the suya spice, butter, or oil

Serve 

Suya-Spiced Jollof Rice

Ingredients

long-grain parboiled rice (or basmati):  2 cups 

chicken or vegetable stock (for extra flavor):  3 cups

red bell pepper (blended): 1 piece

tomato (blended): 1

onion (chopped): 1

tomato paste: 3 tablespoons

Suya spice (adjust to taste): 2 tablespoons

smoked paprika (optional, for extra smokiness): 1 teaspoon 

Scotch bonnet or habanero pepper (whole, for mild heat—remove before serving): 1 piece 

vegetable oil (or peanut oil): ½ cup

Salt to taste

Recipe

Blend the bell peppers, onion, and tomato into a paste. 

Heat the paste in oil and then fry the onions until it goes brown. 

Cook the tomato paste for a few minutes

Then add the tomato paste to the bell pepper paste and cook it for 10 minutes

Add the suya spice to the mix along with the paprika and scotch bonnet pepper. 

Add the rice and stir it to coat it in the sauce. 

Pour the hot stock into the mix. Add salt and stir. 

Cook the mix for 30 minutes. 

If the rice hasn’t softened, cook it longer. 

Tips for Cooking Suya Spice

To enhance the flavour of an authentic African food, here are some tips to be kept in mind: 

To enhance the flavour of Suya spice, toasting the powder is an effective option. 

Cutting the meat thinly is an effective way for the meat to absorb the spice. 

Suya spice works better with oil, especially in a vegetarian dish. 

Suya spice should be stored in airtight containers. 

Conclusion

Suya spice is bold and spicy, and suitable for anyone who wants a taste of authentic African foods. Suya spice is a significant part of Nigerian cuisine, especially the street food market, and can be used for complex gourmet dishes as well. However, it is one of the most underrated spices and deserves better recognition and global recognition. Suya spice must be used in more dishes, both in African and European countries and bring a change in the culinary world. 

[motherlandgroceries]

African Foods

Explore the diverse world of African Foods, in which conventional flavors and substances come collectively. Our selection capabilities famous staples such as yam, cassava, plantains, fufu flour, and unique spices like barbered, suya, and alligator pepper. Whether you’re making jollof rice, egos soup, or pounded yam, we provide the most up to date elements for an proper cooking revel in. From palm oil to dried fish, our range of merchandise celebrates the wealthy culinary historical past of Africa.

[probablyasocialecologist]

In November, the Communist Party of Kenya organised a demonstration that was disrupted by the police. Vigils, workshops, and teaching events have popped up all over Nairobi, and boycotts of Israeli-owned businesses have begun to take priority for an increasing number of people. Gathimba is a part of several advocacy organisations, including one called Kenyans for Palestine, which has organised Palestinian film screenings, created infographics to help identify brands to boycott, and called for government actions. It is now urging the Kenyan grocery delivery platform Greenspoon to drop Israeli-owned products. Members are also educating friends and family about the nuances of the conflict. But a boycott is more difficult than it may appear. Israeli-owned businesses occupy many street corners in Kenya’s capital. The wildly popular Artcaffe coffee and casual dining chain and the bustling shopping centre, Westgate Mall, are owned and operated by Israeli-owned companies. There are also other influential businesses with slightly less name recognition, like the agricultural company Amiran Kenya. These Israeli-owned and supported institutions are a part of Kenyan life, so much so that few are aware of this connection. Even some of those who know, have been least bothered. Many Kenyans and indeed Africans have looked away from the conflict, preferring to focus on continental crises and seeing what is happening in the Middle East, as being far away from them. “[Many] Kenyans tend to think that [the Israel-Palestine conflict] is far away from us,” said XN Iraki, a lecturer in economics at the University of Nairobi. “The attitude is to let people sort out their problems. Like the war between Russia and Ukraine, people don’t talk about it much.” But for those leading the boycotts and encouraging others to join, the parallels between Kenya’s colonial past and Palestine’s present predicament are too strong to ignore.

[aesthgrace]

Wénze Market - Community Lot - No CC

Welcome to Wénze Market, a bustling and immersive community lot inspired by the vibrant markets of Kinshasa and Brazzaville, known as Wénze and Zando.

This build is part of my ongoing Oasis Springs renovation project, bringing the authentic spirit of Congolese markets to The Sims 4.

Wénze Market recreates the lively atmosphere of traditional African markets, offering your Sims a rich experience with food, shopping, and unique cultural encounters.

Features of Wénze Market:

Diverse Food Stalls:

Street Food Stand: Managed by a vendor, offering quick and authentic street food (City Living pack, For Rent…).

DIY Food Stand: Allowing your Sims to sell homemade goods like fresh milk, honey, and baked treats (Cooking Together pack).

Communal Dining Spaces:

Plenty of tables and seating areas to enjoy meals from the market.

A bar area where you can hire a mixologist and enjoy refreshing drinks.

Varied Market Stalls:

Art & Craft Stalls: Selling paintings, books, fruits, vegetables, fish, and clothing.

Covered Market Sections:

Thrift Store Area: Selling second-hand clothing, textiles, accessories, and shoes.

Home Goods & Textiles: Featuring fabrics, postcards, and traditional Congolese items.

Indoor Grocery Section: A cozy spot for spices, fresh produce, and a small indoor market experience.

Mystical Marabout Stand:

A unique and mystical area designed as a marabout’s (witch doctor’s) stand.

Decorated with candles, mystical objects, and tarot cards.

I made this stand before the “Life & Death” pack so I simply used a card table. But now it’s ideal for fortune-telling and tarot reading! Your Sims can experience authentic tarot sessions and add a mystical twist to your gameplay.

Additional Amenities:

Public toilets for convenience.

A community board, allowing the lot to function as a true community market.

Lush greenery, with palm trees and natural decor that enhance the immersive feel.

A central fountain adorned with the market’s name, serving as a perfect meeting spot.

Thoughtful details like benches, a toy chest for kids, decorative bikes, and more to bring the market to life.

I hope you enjoy exploring Wénze Market as much as I loved creating it. Feel free to tag me or share screenshots of your Sims enjoying the market, I’d love to see them!

Now available on my Patreon🔥

🌸 Aesthgrace

- ❤️ No CC needed. ❤️ Built using bb.moveobjects

[daymemebeliever]

Hey Fanguins! Want to Help Real Life Penguins? :D

Why Now?

5 out of the 18 penguin species are listed as endangered

That’s approximately 28% that are endangered, not including those under the “vulnerable” or “near threatened” statuses.

These endangered species include:

The Yellow-eyed Penguin

Northern Rockhopper Penguin

Galapagos Penguin

Erect-Crested Penguin

African Penguin

Cute little guys like these African penguins are predicted to go EXTINCT by 2035.

Biggest Threats to Penguins:

Overfishing

Plastic Pollution

Oil Spills

Habitat Disruption

Invasive Species

Climate Change

So… What can We Do?

I know sometimes it seems hopeless when there are major corporations having extensive negative impacts on the environment.

But there are small, everyday changes you may be able to make to contribute for the better (at least a little).

Small actions can add up over time.

Shop Consciously

Overfishing and unregulated fishing are big contributors to penguin populations decreasing.

Less available prey means penguins have to spend longer time at sea to feed their chicks and themselves. This could force them to abandon their chicks, reach the point of exhaustion and pass away as a result, or return to emaciated chicks.

Seafood Watch is a wonderful resource to ensure the seafood you’re buying has been caught sustainably. https://www.seafoodwatch.org/recommendations/download-consumer-guides

Swap for More Sustainable Options

Aside from seafood, you might be able to make many swaps to reusable products.

Reusable grocery bags/tote bags can actually make transporting groceries easier while reducing plastic usage.

If you have access to clean water, a water filter pitcher or a reusable water bottle are also great options when available! 😊

Swapping plastic containers for aluminum cans or cartons (these are easier to recycle)

Swap balloons for other party favors (many released balloons end up in our oceans). Penguins and other sea animals can choke on or get tangled in these while swimming.

Conscious Pet Ownership

Choose pets responsibly and never abandon a pet if you can no longer take care of it. This could lead to the rise of invasive species.

Keep pets on a leash when outside even when you do not see local wildlife.

Penguins, especially those whose habits are around human populations, are regularly attacked and lethally injured by unattended dogs or cats. These include feral or stray animals that have become invasive.

Learn More Directly from Non-Profits:

SANCCOB is an internationally renowned rehabilitation center for South African seabirds (including African penguins) leading conservation efforts for this species. https://sanccob.co.za/about-sanccob/

The Yellow-Eyed Penguin Trust is another great non-profit located in New Zealand that tracks behavior and nesting patterns of the Yellow-eyed penguins. They also remove invasive predators to ensure Yellow-eyed penguins have a chance at repopulating to sustainable levels. https://www.yellow-eyedpenguin.org.nz/yellow-eyed-penguin-trust/about-the-trust/

Penguins International is a nonprofit that educates about penguins and penguin conservation efforts. https://www.penguinsinternational.org/about-us/

Any AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums that support conservation efforts

Advocate:

Sign petitions encouraging legislation change that aims to reduce climate change or regulate fishing

Write to/email legislators when penguin species are at risk

Donate (if you can/would like):

Both Penguins International and SANCCOB do symbolic penguin adoptions to support penguin conservation.

On SANCCOB’s website, you can choose an egg, hatchling, rehabilitated penguin, or long-term penguin resident to symbolically adopt/sponsor. You even get to give your adopted penguin a name!

The Yellow-Eyed Penguin Trust also accepts donations of various amounts.

I figured since if you follow this blog, penguins have inspired media and art that means a lot to you or that has at least brightened your day. If you’re as amazed as I am about the real life species, please consider taking steps to help or learn more about real penguins. I figured sharing this information, while trying to make these changes myself, are the least I could do to honor these amazing creatures!

Thank you for reading! 😁

(Lol I’ll get off my soapbox now 😉)

Maybe Tom McGrath can explain it better 😉 (skip to 3:16 to hear him talk about how amazing penguins are! 😊)

[whencyclopedia]

Claude Monet

Claude Monet (1840-1926) was a French impressionist painter who transformed modern art with his emphasis on light brushstrokes, bright colours, and uncluttered nature. Famed for his landscapes and series of paintings that captured the same view in different momentary atmospheric conditions, Monet is heralded as one of the greatest and most influential artists of all time.

Early Life

Oscar-Claude Monet was born in Paris on 14 November 1840. The job of Monet's father, Claude-Adolphe, is not known except that it was a humble one and that the family often struggled financially. In 1845, the Monets moved to Le Havre on the northern coast of France where Claude-Adolphe worked in his brother-in-law's thriving wholesale grocery business. Oscar-Claude's favourite subject at school was art, and, fascinated by the boats in the busy harbour, he often sketched them. From 15, he made money by selling caricatures, some of which were displayed in a local shop window each Sunday, which became a minor local attraction. Monet's aunt, Marie-Jeanne Lecadre, was an amateur painter and she encouraged Oscar-Claude, introducing him to the artist Amand Gautier (1825-1894).

Another artistic influence was the landscape painter Eugène Boudin (1824-1898) and the pair went painting together en plein air (outdoors), as opposed to the traditional method of painting in the studio. Still only 17, Monet produced his first outdoor painting, View from Rouelles, in 1858. Monet later described the experience:

Boudin put up his easel and set to work…for me it was like the rending of a veil; I understood; I grasped what painting could be…my destiny as a painter opened up before me. If I have indeed become a painter; I owe it to Eugène Boudin…Gradually my eyes were opened and I understood nature.

(Hodge, 15)

In April 1859, Monet gathered together his savings from his caricatures sales and went to study art in Paris. He enrolled in the unconventional Académie Suisse and started to make friends with artists like Camille Pissarro (1830-1903) and Paul Cézanne (1839-1906). More caricatures helped eke out his savings.

In June 1861, Monet's studies were rudely interrupted by conscription into the French army. Joining the African Light Cavalry, he was shipped off to Algeria. The bright colours of North Africa left a lasting impression on the young artist, who continued to sketch when he could. Then, after contracting typhoid in 1862, Monet was invalided back home. Six months later, Aunt Marie-Jeanne bought her nephew out of the army. Now 22, he dropped the Oscar from his name and began to paint again. It was at Le Havre that Monet met the Dutch artist Johan Barthold Jongkind (1819-1891), whose work he already admired for its broad and bold brushstrokes and which captured effects of the weather on seascapes. As Monet noted, Jongkind "became from this moment, my true master; and it is to him that I owe the final development of my painter's eye" (Hodge, 19).

Continue reading...

[riveroftales]

:+:-・:+:-・𝐈𝐍𝐊 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐈𝐍:+:-・:+:-

ᴛᴀᴛᴛᴏᴏ ᴀʀᴛɪsᴛ ɢɪʏᴜᴜ x ғᴇᴍ! ғʟᴏʀɪsᴛ ʀᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ

𝘾𝙒! 𝖦𝗂𝗒𝗎𝗎'𝗌 𝗉����𝗋𝗌𝗈𝗇𝖺𝗅𝗂𝗍𝗒 𝗁𝖾𝗋𝖾 𝗂𝗌 𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝗉𝖾𝗋𝗌𝗈𝗇𝖺𝗅𝗂𝗍𝗒 𝖺𝖿𝗍𝖾𝗋 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝖿𝗂𝗇𝖺𝗅 𝖻𝖺𝗍𝗍𝗅𝖾

“Hello!” You smiled as you walked in the tattoo parlour, holding a box. “I have a delivery?”

“Oh! Hi!” A pretty girl with one tatted arm of a swarm of butterflies smiled back. “Are those the African Violets?”

“Mhm! Got 5 small pots in it, just as requested.”

“Thank you so much! You can leave them on the counter, and I believe the manager already paid?”

You listened to the girl, gently dropping the box near the register.

“Eh? I was told I’d be paid in person after I delivered it.”

“Ah, I see! Please wait for a bit then, I’ll go get the manager.”

You nodded as the girl walked away. Looking around, you took in the sight of the parlour. The whole place was kept neat and you saw a few bottles of tattoo ink.

Looking at the posters on the wall, you wondered if you could also get one.

What would it be?

As cliche as it was, you wanted a flower tattoo. A pretty flower of any kind.

There are a lot of pretty flowers.

“Hello.” A man emerged from the back.

But he’s prettier than flowers.

“Kocho, the girl you saw here, reminded me about the payment.” There wasn’t an expression present on his face, but his demeanour was soft.

“It’s fine. Honestly, things like this happen.” You smiled softly.

The man cleared his throat.

“How much is it?”

“$30.”

“Do you take credit?”

You nodded as you took your phone out.

“Yup! Just scan this and we’ll be good to go!”

He unlocked his own phone before scanning the QR code you put up on your screen.

“Thank you for your purchase!”

You sprayed the small bonsai tree on your windowsill with a spray bottle, humming along to the soft music you were playing in the back. The door opened.

“Oh! Welcome!” You smiled warmly to the customer, just for a blush to rise to your face.

The handsome tattoo artist.

“Hey.” He scratched the back of his head. “I.. Uhm. I need to make a new purchase.”

“Of course! Please feel free to look around and take your pick! I’ll make sure to deliver it myself as well.”

To your surprise, he laughed softly.

“I’m sorry for the misunderstanding. I’d like to make a new purchase for you. I’d like to take you out to dinner.”

STAY CALM STAY CALM STAY CALM STAY CALM STAY CALM STAY CALM STAY CALM.

“Eh?”

“I don’t really like stalling.. you already should have my number on your order history. Just text me a ‘yes’ or ‘no’. If it’s ’no’, that’s fine. If it’s a ‘yes’, you can send me your address if you want me to pick you up. Be ready by 7:30 PM.” He smiled softly before putting his hands in his pockets, turning around to leave the shop.

“Wait!” You stopped. “How are you so confident I’ll come?”

He smiled. “You go on blind dates, right? Only difference is that you know what I look like.”

A small laugh came out of you.

“See you then, princess.”

A smile formed on your expression as you recalled the memory. You finished cutting the stems of your flowers and you started to arrange them.

You relocated your office. The store was still the same, but now, your office was in a different part. It was facing the tattoo parlour right across.

You could still remember how the parlour was once the size of a small grocery store, but now, it had undergone renovations and it looked better than ever. You counted 7 new clients.

My Love, you still ready for tonight?

You received a text.

Yep! Just gotta finish a small arrangement for a client who’s getting married soon

You got a response almost immediately.

That’s odd. I don’t remember proposing to you?

GIYUU

I’m kidding, Princess <3

You let out a small huff before smiling. Finishing the arrangement, you put it away at a safe spot in your office before grabbing your bag and walking to the other side of the road to the tattoo parlour.

You wanted to spend a little more time with Giyuu even though you were still going out for a date later that evening. Time just felt so beautiful when you were with him. A little unfortunately, you forgot your phone at your office and hence didn’t see the next two messages from him.

<<Image attachment>>

Heads up: I’m going to propose to you tonight with this ring. Don’t cry, okay? Just say yes or no. I’ll wait as long as it takes. I love you <3 get all dolled up for me, okay?

Ahhhh low-key hate this but I was desperate to upload smth T^T

I MIGHT rewrite this later bsjsjsjsjsj

[stephensmithuk]

The Hound of the Baskervilles: The Stapletons of Merripit House

A mullion is a vertical divider in a window.

A scullery maid was the lowest ranking female servant in the household, who would wash the dishes and sometimes the clothing too. Snow White and Cinderella started off in this role.

It would take Watson around two hours to walk to Grimpen. I've done longer walks and I suppose he would have done so in his Army days.

A grocer is a person who runs a grocery, which in British English is analagous to a general store, where you would buy most everyday items, including the most common newspapers and magazines. We would also distinguish these days between the larger supermarket (grocery store) and the smaller corner shop (what New Yorkers would call a bodega); frequently run by immigrants or their immediate descendants. This is an example of the latter.

I do not know how common it was then, but today it is very common, even in major cities, to have a Post Office counter as part of another store such as a corner shop; these franchised businesses are run by subpostmasters. The Post Office, as well as post, provides banking services for both its own financial business and for other banks or building societies. The computer system that was used for financial transactions by them, Horizon, is currently at the centre of a major scandal.

Dartmoor has many peat bogs. The Ordnance Survey maps give their general location, but their exact size varies depending on conditions. Walkers frequently end up in them by accident or lack of experience; safe routes are marked out, but not always easy to see. The vast majority are not that deep and the worst that will happen is a case of smelly, muddy embarrassment. However, some are deeper, where you can end up with a risk of hypothermia - there are no less than four volunteer Mountain Rescue teams in the area to help people in difficulty.

Then some are straight up lethal, especially to animals. A gallop is the fastest horse speed setting - a horse can run at around 25 to 30mph for up to three kilometres before getting winded. So, not a good idea to do it on boggy land.

Grimpen Mire is believed to have been inspired by Fox Tor Mire:

There are 14 species of bittern. One of them is the Eurasian bittern, which was indeed extinct in the UK for a while when this story takes place and is still only here in limited numbers with its habitat. The species as a whole currently rated "Least Concern" but in decline.

The Neolithic period lasted from c.10,000 BC to c.2,000 BC, being the final period of the Stone Age. There is a timber track pathway in Somerset, the oldest recorded road, dating back to c. 3,838 BC.

Cyclopides was an old name for several species of South African Skipper butterflies. They tend to be found in southern Africa, not Dartmoor:

Miss Stapleton must deem the situation urgent to leave without her hat; people did not as a general rule go hatless in this period, even the poorest usually had some form of cap.

[olomaya]

Religion Mod: Banisteria Expansion

This is a small update for my Religion mod specifically for the Omiscan religion.

So you probably don't think of bongs when you think of religion but the use of psychedelic substances was a very common practice in ancient religions as people used to use them to commune with spirits and higher powers. As the Omiscan religion is based on ancient MesoAmerican and West African animist religions, it fits right in and makes for some fun gameplay.

If you play as an Omiscan, then you know that there's a special unlock you get for maxing out the religion which is a psychedelic herb called Banisteria. It's based on ayahuasca. Sims eat it and gain temporary "enlightenment" or they may have a negative reaction to it.

It's always been the plan to make a drinkable tea version (which is how you normally take ayahuasca) but while I was doing the vape pen, I added the option to smoke banisteria as well for my freewheeling free-lovin Omiscans.

Since the Omiscan religion is all about communing with others and the spirits, I wanted the smoking (and eventually drinking) to be a shared experience but the idea of sharing a vape seemed gross to me (do people do that IRL?). So I created a bong which is, in theory, just as gross, but at least that's what you normally do with bongs so I can let that slide.

Requirements: You need the updated banisteria and Peteran (that's where the buff effects are) files and my Smoking mod here to use this and University for the herb effects. If you are downloading the religion mod for the first time, please read through the documents and the original post first.

Credits: The bong is an edited conversion from Chisami's Highlife set. Sadly their blog is no longer active but you can still find their stuff on a graveyard site. You may be able to use other bongs but I shorted this one to fit the animation so you'll have to trial and error to see which other cc bongs will work.

Download after instructions after the cut

Banisteria is a sacred herb to the followers of the Omiscan religion so it's only available to those who have mastered the religion. It cannot be bought or acquired any other way (unless you use a cheat).

However globalization ruins everything and turns it into a commodity so now it's become cool to smoke Banisteria even if you're not Omiscan.

Still only Omiscans have a good understanding of how to handle the herb and so they have a lower chance of having a bad trip. Chance of a bad trip is 40% (tunable) if you don't have an Omiscan skill level 3 or higher.

Sims can sell banisteria at the smoke shop which yields a higher price than if you were to sell it through your inventory. (How much more you get is based on the quality of the herb.)

I've also updated the herb effects for banisteria so having a bad trip is bit more "psychedelic". Sims that are tripping will hear and see things only they can hear and see.

Because banisteria is a mind altering substance, pregnant Sims should not smoke it but no one's stopping you from doing so. It will cause harm to the pregnancy though.

Other Features:

This adds two additional features to the vape pen

Add Banisteria: You will need at least 4 banisteria herbs in your inventory to fill the vape pen. Note: this amount is tunable in Retuner

Smoke Banisteria: self explanatory

Bongs/Waterpipes

You can purchase from the smoke shop at the grocery store where you get cigarettes, vapes, etc.

Bongs cost 350 and require 6 banisteria herbs to fill. Also tunable.

Sims with a bong in their inventory can also smoke with a friend. Just select someone you have 40+ relationship with and select "Smoke with X". They may accept or refuse based on their traits or current buffs.

Omiscan teens won't get in trouble for smoking banisteria because it's part of their culture.

Download here

Download updated banisteria here and religion base file here (required)

[motherlandgroceries]

African Groceries

Discover authentic African groceries that bring the vibrant flavors of the continent to your kitchen. Our selection includes a wide variety of traditional spices, grains, and flours like fugue, gray, and tiff. Stock up on essential staples like palm oil, dried fish, and groundnuts. Explore unique condiments, snacks, and beverages such as chin, plantain chips, and hibiscus tea. Whether you're preparing a classic West African jollify rice or experimenting with East African cuisine, our African groceries offer fresh ingredients and quality products to elevate your meals.

[alloalouette]

Crosstown Concourse

Originally a Sears distribution warehouse which opened in 1927, the property had been vacant since 1993. Crosstown Concourse has recently been converted into a city within the city, reopening in 2017 (90 years after its original grand opening) as a multi-use property that includes shops, a grocery market, apartments, art spaces, a YMCA, a non-profit medical facility, a high school, a performing arts center, a radio station, and more. Crosstown hosts numerous events such as an Asian Night Market, an artisan fest, concerts, performances, art installations, to name a few.

Julius Rosenwald, the chairman of the board of directors of Sears Roebuck & Co., was also a philanthropist who, together with Booker T. Washington, established a fund to assist African Americans in the South with more equitable opportunities for education and vocational training. His investments and vision have had lasting impacts on Memphis and the greater Mid-South.

[trippinsorrows]

ahhhh, it's so cool to me that ya'll are liking 'in your hands'. like someone in the comments said, whoever sent the ask that triggered this waitress!solana dynamic, you the real mvp. 😭😭😭🥺🥺🥺

i don't want nor plan for the remaining parts to be nearly that long. i just don't have the time to be writing that much for one damn chapter when i have several other works. i think that one just ended being that long because of the smut. which i also don't anticipate writing a lot of for that one either.

but the next part will be shorter, essentially focusing on roman interacting for real with soraya for the first time. grocery shopping with this little girl who keeps looking at and smiling with him, a continued thing even as they're at his place, solana cooking, as lil raya seems infatuated with his tattoos. and him. 🥺

also, random but cool thing (to me lol), the faceclaim for yolanda, solana's big sister, is charlie's older sister! they're both influencers! aso also, i also really wanted to make trick soraya's dad, but i don't like perpetuating the deadbeat african american father stereotype (we already got xavier and reader's dad in the with series), so he's instead a loyal, dutiful, amazing husband to yolanda and dope ass dad to their two kids. 😭😭😭😭😭

[hangelbel]

Exploring Manhattan: The Heart of New York City

Manhattan, the vibrant heart of New York City, is a place where history, art, culture, and commerce converge. With its iconic skyline, diverse neighborhoods, and endless entertainment options, Manhattan offers an experience like no other. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or rediscovering the city as a local, here’s everything you need to know about exploring Manhattan.

1. Iconic Landmarks

No visit to Manhattan is complete without exploring its famous landmarks. The Statue of Liberty stands proudly in New York Harbor, symbolizing freedom and hope. Nearby, Ellis Island shares the stories of millions of immigrants who helped shape the city’s history. Another must-see is the Empire State Building, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the skyline from its observation deck.

Other landmarks include Times Square, known as "The Crossroads of the World," where bright lights and billboards dazzle visitors day and night. Central Park, an oasis in the city's midst, provides a natural escape with walking trails, ponds, and beautiful scenery. For art lovers, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and the Metropolitan Museum of Art are must-visit destinations.

2. Diverse Neighborhoods

Each neighborhood in Manhattan has a unique personality, offering something for everyone. SoHo, known for its cobblestone streets and trendy boutiques, is a haven for art enthusiasts and fashionistas. The Lower East Side showcases the city’s immigrant history with vibrant eateries and cultural sites. For a taste of luxury, visit the Upper East Side, home to upscale shops, fine dining, and classic brownstones.

Head to Greenwich Village for a bohemian vibe with live music venues, quirky coffee shops, and the birthplace of the Beat movement. Meanwhile, Harlem offers rich African American culture, from soul food to jazz clubs and historic churches. Chinatown and Little Italy are other highlights, each offering unique flavors, cultural landmarks, and annual festivals.

3. Entertainment and Nightlife

Manhattan is famous for its Broadway district, where world-class musicals and plays entertain millions. Be sure to catch a show in one of the historic theaters, or, for a unique experience, see an off-Broadway production. The nightlife scene is also thriving, with rooftop bars offering stunning skyline views, jazz clubs in the West Village, and dance clubs in Chelsea.

If you prefer a more relaxed evening, consider a dinner cruise along the Hudson River. You’ll enjoy beautiful views of Manhattan’s illuminated skyline, including landmarks like the One World Trade Center, Chrysler Building, and Brooklyn Bridge.

4. Foodie’s Paradise

Manhattan is a culinary haven, offering everything from food trucks to Michelin-starred restaurants. For street food, try a New York-style hot dog, a classic slice of pizza, or a bagel with lox and cream cheese. Food halls like Chelsea Market and the Essex Market offer international cuisine, artisanal groceries, and unique dining experiences.

If you’re in the mood for fine dining, Manhattan boasts some of the world’s best restaurants. Jean-Georges, Eleven Madison Park, and Nobu offer exceptional experiences for food lovers. And don’t forget the borough's dessert scene: Magnolia Bakery’s cupcakes and Levain Bakery’s cookies are must-tries.

5. Shopping Extravaganza

For shopping, Fifth Avenue is a dream destination, offering high-end brands like Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton. For unique finds, head to the markets in Hell’s Kitchen or the boutiques in NoLIta. And if you’re looking for budget-friendly options, the Garment District has plenty of sample sales and outlet stores.

Manhattan truly has it all—from world-renowned landmarks and diverse neighborhoods to mouth-watering cuisine and unparalleled entertainment. Whether you’re strolling through Central Park, dining in Little Italy, or exploring the art galleries in Chelsea, Manhattan will capture your heart and inspire memories that last a lifetime.

[braveclementine]

Chapter 16

Copyright: I do not own any Marvel characters or locations. However, I do own my OCs: Ellie White along with her friends Allie, Abi, Malcolm, Reece, Anthony, Elijah, etc. I do not condone any copying of this

Ellie placed goldfish in her basket, having a craving for salty snacks at the moment. She also added cheezits and Saltine crackers for good measure, making a mental note to make sure they had peanut butter or cream cheese to put on the crackers. 

She turned, heading out of the grocery aisle to go to the chip aisle and grab some of Steves' favorites for their movie night. As she turned the corner, she slammed into a hard body. 

"Shit!" The voice shouted and then strong arms grabbed her before she could fall, wrapping around her and pulling her back up onto her feet, though she dropped the basket to grab him in return in her panic. 

"I am so sorry." The African American man said, his eyes wide in panic. He was probably 5'10 or 5'11 with short black hair. He was wearing a tight blue t-shirt and jeans. "Are you alright ma'am?" 

"Y-yeah." Ellie stuttered out, blushing. "I'm so sorry! I wasn't looking where I was going!" 

"No, it's my fault." The man insisted. "I was in a hurry, not watching where I was going." 

Ellie laughed and the man followed a second later. "Sorry." They said together. The man bent down, picking up her basket to hand it to her. "Really," He added, "Sorry about that. Are you okay?" 

"Yeah, I'm fine, thank you for catching me." Ellie smiled. 

"I'm Sam Wilson." The man said, sticking his hand out. "Figure you should know who I am after knocking you down. Just in case you want to press charges." 

Ellie giggled, shaking his hand, "I'm Ellie Rogers." 

"Like as in Steve Rogers soulmate?" Sams' eyes went wide, "Oh I'm so dead." 

Ellie laughed again. "No, he's a sweetheart. Besides, it was an accident." 

Sam grinned and then his look became more hesitant, "Hey, I know this could be overreaching, but could I ask you a question about him?" 

"Sure." Ellie said with a slight frown. 

"Well, first here." Sam said, digging in his pocket for his wallet, handing over a card of sorts. "This is where I work with vets, being ex-military myself." 

"Oh thank you for your service." Ellie immediately said, looking up at him with honest eyes. 

'Damn Captain America really hit the jackpot with this one.' Sam thought for a moment, before continuing. "Of course. But uh, I was asking because I wondered um how he was rehabilitating. I'm sure you would notice signs like sleeping on the floor instead of the bed or jumping at things." 

Ellie hesitated and then said, "He does sometimes although he's been working through them with me. I'll give him the card though. He's uh. . . not always the best about realizing he needs help. But I do my best." 

'Bet you do.' Sam thought. 'To bad you're taken.' Politely he said, "Well I'll let you continue shopping. It was very nice meeting you Ellie." 

"Hey wait." Ellie said, turning to him as he went to move past her in pursuit of the ingredients he was going to find to make Jambalaya. "Would you like to come to dinner this Saturday? You would be able to explain your job much better than I could. And Steve always appreciates meeting other military, ex or not." 

Sam was stunned as her request. "Yeah, sure, that'd be really cool." Ellie quickly wrote her address on a post-it note and also a time. "We're having spaghetti and meatballs." She smiled, handing it to him. Sam took the green paper. "Well now you'll never get rid of me." He joked. 

Ellie giggled. "Can't wait to see you there." She waved to him and headed towards the chip aisle that she had been her original target. Sam watched her go and then smiled to himself. 

'Finally something to do this Saturday.' Sam thought. 

｡ ★ • * ｡

"We're having a guest Saturday for dinner." Ellie sung happily as she sat down on the couch with Steve. Selene was sleeping in the nursery soundly, the baby monitor set up on the table in front of them so they could check on her. Ellie opened up her goldfish, popping some of the cheesy crackers into her mouth. 

"Lafueyson-Strange or Romanoff-Barton?" Steve asked, grabbing the package of Oreos off the counter to open them up. He eased one of the chocolate cookies off, popping it into his mouth. He did the same with a second one before pushing the white filling parts together, handing it over to Ellie who shoved the sugary treat into her mouth. 

"Neither." Ellie said, "His name is Sam Wilson. I met him today in the grocery store." 

This is why Steve needed to stop letting her out by herself. He never would of course, but it was things like this that gave him heart attacks. 

"You invited a stranger to dinner?" Steve asked, amused. 

"He helped me in the store." Ellie said as explanation. "He caught me instead of letting me fall. He was very nice. He's ex military too and he wants to talk to you. I thought you'd like him." 

"We'll see." Steve said easily, leaving the Oreos for her and grabbing the pretzels that he loved to dip in mustard. "What are we watching tonight?" 

"I was thinking The Sound of Music, but then I realized it might have some triggers because of the time period it takes place. So I thought it would be safer to settle with The Birds. It's a horror movie though so I might scream." Ellie answered thoughtfully and Steve softened at her thoughtfulness. 

Needless to say, Steve was intrigued to meet this 'Sam' and wondered exactly what he had in store for them. 

｡ ★ • * ｡

"On your left." Steve huffed out as he passed the African American man on his run. It wasn't long before he was passing him again, "On your left." 

"Uh-huh, on my left. Got it." He heard the man mutter behind him. 

Steve came up behind him once more and he shouted, "DON'T SAY IT! DON'T YOU SAY IT!" 

Steve smiled a little, "On your left." 

"Come on!" 

Steve finished off the lap to find that he was sitting under a tree in the shade, breathing heavily. "Need a medic?" 

"I need a new set of lungs. Dude, you just ran like 13 miles in 30 minutes."

"Guess I got a late start." Steve hummed, looking over his shoulder. He normally did 20. 

"Oh, really? You should be ashamed of yourself. You should take another lap." He said, gesturing with his hand. After a few seconds of Steve smiling he said, "Did you just take it? I assumed you just took it."

"What unit you with?" Steve asked, gesturing to the symbol on the front of the mans sweatshirt. 

"58, Pararescue. But now I'm working down at the VA." Sam said, getting off his butt to hold out his hand. "Sam Wilson." 

"Stev- hold on." Steve took another look at him, "'Sam Wilson' as in the same 'Sam Wilson' who my soulmate invited to dinner this weekend?" 

Sam scratched the back of his head sheepishly. "Hey look man if you're not cool with that-" 

"Nah, it's not that." Steve shook his head. 

"Cause I mean I was shocked she made such an offer." Sam said, "I don't think most people invite people they just met into their homes." 

"She has good instinct." Steve smiled. 

Sam nodded for a moment and then asked, "Must have freaked you out coming home after the whole defrosting thing." 

"It takes some getting used to. It's good to meet you, Sam. I'll see you at dinner." Steve said, seconding Ellies' request. 

"It's your bed, right?" Sam asked suddenly as Steve had turned to leave and now he turned back. 

"What?" 

"Your bed, it's too soft. When I was over there I'd sleep on the ground and use rock for pillows, like a caveman. Now I'm home, lying in my bed, and it's like-"

"-Lying on a marshmallow. Feel like I'm gonna sink right to the floor." Steve answered. Some nights it was easier, especially if it was after him and Ellie had finished going a few rounds. But other nights he had to leave his wife in their bed so he could feel more comfortable on the floor of their daughters bedroom. 

He knew Ellie didn't mind, hell she understood and told him to do whatever he thought he needed to. He'd drawn the line though when he'd woken up one morning and she was laying next to him on the floor, goosebumps littering her body from how cold she was. She didn't need to do that for him. 

"How long?" Steve asked. 

"Two tours." Sam answered. "You must miss the good old days, huh?" 

Steve felt that pang of loss for Bucky, missing him with that question, but answered honestly, "Well, things aren't so bad. Food's a lot better, we used to boil everything. No polio is good. Internet, so helpful. I've been reading that a lot trying to catch up. Beautiful soulmate." 

Sam raised a finger and said, "Marvin Gaye, 1972, "Trouble Man" soundtrack. Everything you've missed jammed into one album." 

"I'll put it on the list." Steve said, pulling out the notebook he carried with him everywhere. There was plenty of other stuff on the list. I Love Lucy (Television); Moon Landing; Berlin Wall (Up + Down) Steve Jobs (Apple); Disco; Thai Food; Star Wars/Trek (with Star Wars crossed out, indicating that he has seen it); Nirvana (Band); Rocky (Rocky II), and Jurassic park just to name a few. 

Steve furrows his brow in irritation as he phone pings with a message that he's got a message. Of all the weeks! "I gotta get going Sam. I'll see you later." 

"See you." Sam waved and Steve went to get to the extraction point. 

｡ ★ • * ｡

Sam knocked on the dark blue door of the small house, nestled in a quiet suburb of a New York neighborhood. It was one of those houses you'd see in movies with brightly coloured shutters and a cottage yet also modern esque feel to it. 

Ellie opened the door, greeting him with a large smile, "Sam! Come on in!" 

The house was beautiful, while small, and Sam admired the pictures on the mantlepiece. A wedding picture and a few baby pictures of a little girl. Sam handed Ellie the red wine he'd brought. "I didn't know how fancy it would be tonight, but I brought this nevertheless." 

"Thank you." Ellie said, taking the gift and heading into the next adjoining room, putting it on the table. "Clint will like this." 

"Well hi there." Sam said sweetly to the little baby who was sitting in her highchair at the table. "What is your name cupcake?" 

"This is Selene." Ellie said, showing her daughter off proudly. "She's turning six months old very soon." 

"She's beautiful." Sam complimented. 

"Takes after Steve." Ellie laughed. 

"Where is Steve?" Sam asked, surprised that her husband wasn't down here with them. 

"Oh." Ellies' smile faltered a little, "He got called into a mission a few days overseas. So he's not going to be here tonight unfortunately. Loki, Stephen, and Natasha won't be making it either but Clint and Bruce will be here tonight. So a little smaller than normal but that's alright! More food for us!" 

Sam only recognized Lokis' name off the bat, "Whose Stephen, Natasha, Bruce, and uh. . . Clint?" 

"Oh." Ellie nodded, "Right. Well Stephen is a Doctor at the hospital but he's soulmates with Loki. Natasha, Bruce, and Clint are all soulmates as well but you'd more likely know them as Black Widow, Hulk, and Hawkeye respectively." 

Sam suddenly wished he'd dressed nicer in hindsight, realizing he could've had dinner with a God and the Avengers. He looked down at his clothes, which was a simple button up and slacks. Ellie laughed at his glance over, "You're fine Sam. Clint shows up in sweatpants half the time." 

Sam might've felt more reassured if Ellie herself wasn't wearing a green dress, though admittedly it wasn't fancy, but rather old-timey. 

"Do you need any help?" Sam offered. "I'm pretty good in the kitchen." 

"Oh?" Ellie questioned, "Maybe you'd like to help me cook next week then! But for now, no, I don't need any help. I already made everything. Oh unless you'd like to help me with these brownies." 

"You made brownies for dessert?" Sam asked with a grin, walking into the kitchen. He could smell salt, tomato sauce, the slight musk of spaghetti water, and yes the overwhelming scent of chocolate brownies. "What do you need help with?" 

"I wanted to use these Easter egg cookie cutters to shape them." Ellie said, gesturing to the said metal utensils. "And then frost them to look like Easter eggs, but I'm running short on time." 

"Well I'm not an artist, but I think I can manage that." Sam said, rolling his sleeves up. The two of them worked side by side, cutting the brownies into oval shapes with the cookie cutters, then frosting them with colourful squiggly lines or dots. 

The front door opened again and a male voice shouted, "Ellie?!" 

"In the kitchen Clint!" Ellie shouted back, putting the frosting utensil down and brushed her hands on the front of her apron.

"Hey look at you!" Sam heard another voice coo from the dining room, probably to the baby. Ellie went into the dining room with them and Sam transferred the brownies to the large platter Ellie had set out a few moments before. 

"Hi Clint, hi Bruce." Ellie chirped. "We've got another guest tonight." 

"Who?" Clint's voice asked. 

"Hi name is Sam." Ellie said, "Sam, I can handle everything from here, come mingle!" 

Sam, feel incredibly self-conscious, headed out to the living room, coming face to face with Bruce Banner and Hawkeye. 

"Hi, I'm Sam Wilson." Sam said, holding his hand out which Bruce shook first, then Clint. 

"Bruce Banner."

"Clint Barton. What do you do for work?" 

"I work in the VA hospitals and run therapy groups for returned Veterans." Sam answered. 

The three men talked while Ellie started to set the table and while they all offered to help she waved them off and soon the four- five if you counted Selene- of them were seated around the table. Bruce said prayers and then they dug in. 

Ellie had prepared a simple, yet delicious meal of spaghetti, meatballs, some sort of sausage hidden in the sauce (Bruce got a sausage free portion), garlic bread, and salad. By the time dinner had finished, Sam didn't feel out of place. 

"These are adorable." Clint chortled at the brownies. 

"Hey we put our blood, sweat, and tears into those!" Ellie giggled. 

"I hope not, then they'd be unsanitary to eat." Clint faked-gagged. 

Ellie just laughed at that, turning to Selene and feeding her another miniscule bite of meatball. Selene seemed to love them, demanding them whenever her mother tried to feed herself. Bruce had taken over, gently feeding her while Ellie finished eating. 

"Are you guys staying late or is it an early night?" Ellie asked as they stacked dishes  up to be taken to the sink. 

"With Nat out on mission its an early night." Bruce responded. "You know how it is."

"Of course!" Ellie responded. 

"Oh hey, Ellie, I gotta talk to you in private for a second." Clint said, pointing a finger at her. 

"Sure." Ellie said, the two of them getting up and leaving the room. "Is something wrong?" Ellie asked immediately, wondering if something had happened to Steve. 

"Nah, they should be home tomorrow afternoon." Clint waved his hand. "Actually, Natasha, Bruce, and I want you and Steve to uh. . . come somewhere with us." 

Ellie raised an eyebrow, "Sounds ominous. Plotting our deaths?" 

Clint snorted. "Funny." Ellie shrugged her shoulders. "I just don't want to say to much because there are ears everywhere and this is a secret place. We're asking that you also don't bring anything that could be tracked like a phone or even one of those electronic watches." 

"Sure Clint. . ." Ellie chewed on her bottom lip. "But is it something bad?" 

"No!" Clint said, "In fact we're hoping it'll be a really pleasant trip if everything goes well. I can tell you the reason for secrecy once we're there, okay? Hey and bring Selene, Natasha will love that and you guys will too." 

"Alright." Ellie said, still unsure, but Clint was done speaking so she followed them back into the house. "I'll see you guys next Saturday!" Ellie said, waving to Bruce and Clint as they headed to Clints' car. She shut the door and turned to Sam, who was clearing the table for her, wanting to be helpful. 

"You heading out too?" Ellie asked, picking up another piece of garlic bread to eat. 

"Yeah, I have early shifts tomorrow. Some of my Vets can't sleep." Sam sighed, putting the drained spaghetti in the fridge. "You sure you're going to be alright taking care of all of this?" 

"This is nothing." Ellie said. She grinned, "Wait till everyone is here for dinner." 

"Alright." Sam laughed, "Also, thanks." He paused, "Really. I- I wasn't sure what I was expecting but I had a really good time. I haven't really hung out with people like that in a long time." 

Ellie smiled, "Of course. You're welcome back every Saturday. Same time, same day. Although sometimes Loki and Stephen host. If you give me your phone number, I'll add you to the dinner chat so that you can be notified ahead of each other. I usually also announce what's for dinner so you can let me know if there's something you might be allergic to." 

"I don't have any, but thanks for the heads up." Sam said, quickly writing his phone number down for her, handing it to her. "And thanks for tonight again. Also," He picked up another brownie, "Taking this to go." 

Ellie giggled, "Please do! Then I won't eat it." She saw Sam out the door and Sam walked off, with a grin. He was going to be looking forwards to every Saturday night. 

[ausetkmt]

Marcus Garvey - Garveyites And The Garveyism Movement 

Marcus Mosiah Garvey, the master organiser, was born into Jamaica's colonial system and decided to fight for change. After reading Booker T Washington's autobiography, he was devoted to teaching the black community the importance of being self-reliant through education. 

He had high aspirations for building a worldwide organisation to empower people of African descent. His goals would inspire later leaders like Kwame Nkrumah, Steve Biko, and Malcolm X. Garveyism symbolised the transformation of how black people worldwide looked at themselves and their place in the world. 

Garveyism taught that Black people would only be recognised when they were economically and spiritually strong, preached an independent Black economy within the structure of white capitalism, and inducted a black spiritual leader, a flag and a black national anthem. 

The UNIA established the Negro Factories Corporation, the Black Star shipping Line (1919) and a chain of businesses, including grocery shops, restaurants, a printing press, laundries and a hotel. .