I believe in not only glowing on the outside but also shining on the inside, and for that to happen, girl, you need to watch what you eat. I hate to break it to you, but if you want to be healthy, you actually have to eat healthy food. And what better food to eat than good African food and recipes?

African foods are rich in antioxidants and nutrients that are not only healthy but also promote radiant skin. I will share five healthy recipes that are sure to help you achieve that glowing complexion.

1. Moringa Smoothie Bowl

Moringa has a wide range of health benefits due to its rich content of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It also contains vitamins A, C, and E, which are powerful and good for skin health.

Ingredients:

– 1 frozen banana

– 1 cup spinach

– 1 tsp moringa powder

– ½ cup almond milk (or tigernut milk)

– 1 tbsp honey

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients until smooth.                                        
2. Pour into a bowl and top with chia seeds, sliced mango, or granola.

2. Ugandan Avocado & Groundnut Salad

Avocados are filled with a high content of monounsaturated fats, fibre, vitamins C, E, and K, and minerals like potassium and folate, which support heart health and improve cholesterol levels. It also contains healthy fats and Vitamin E that hydrate the skin, while groundnuts add protein and zinc for healing.

Ingredients:

– 1 ripe avocado

– ½ cup roasted groundnuts (crushed)

– 1 tomato (diced)

– 1 cucumber (diced)

– Fresh lemon juice

– Salt & pepper

Instructions:

1. Dice the avocado, tomato, and cucumber.
2. Toss with groundnuts, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Serve fresh as a side or light meal.  

3. North African Chickpea and Carrot Stew

North African chickpeas have numerous health benefits, including support for heart, bone, and digestive health, stable blood sugar, and brain function. They also offer plant-based protein and zinc, which are good for skin repair, while carrots are packed with beta-carotene for an even complexion, promoting collagen production, reducing wrinkles, and protecting against UV damage.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup chickpeas (cooked)

– 2 large carrots (chopped)

– 1 onion (diced)

– 2 garlic cloves (minced)

– 2 tbsp olive oil

– 1 tsp cumin + paprika

– 2 cups vegetable broth

Instructions:

1. Sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil.
2. Add carrots, chickpeas, spices, and broth.
3. Simmer for 20–25 minutes until carrots are tender.
4. Serve warm with couscous.

• Nigerian Tiger Nut Milk (Kunu Aya)

Nigerian tiger nuts contain high fibre, which is great for gut health and digestion, along with essential vitamins and minerals. Tigernuts are high in Vitamin E, magnesium, and antioxidants that boost skin elasticity and glow.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups fresh tiger nuts (soaked overnight)

– ½ cup dates (pitted)

– 1 tsp ginger

– 3 cups water

Instructions:

Blend soaked tigernuts, dates, ginger, and water until smooth.

Strain through a nut-milk bag or a clean cloth.

Chill and serve cold.

• South African Rooibos Tea Latte

South African Rooibos is very good for antioxidants, improving blood sugar control, supporting cardiovascular health, and reducing stress. Rooibos tea is caffeine-free and loaded with polyphenols that reduce inflammation and promote clear skin.

Ingredients:

– 1 rooibos tea bag

– ½ cup hot water

– ½ cup steamed milk (coconut or almond works well)

– 1 tsp honey or agave

Instructions:

1. Brew rooibos tea in hot water for 5 minutes.
2. Add steamed milk and sweetener.
3. Stir and enjoy as a soothing, skin-friendly drink.

Tip for the girl: glowing skin starts with what you eat. If you eat bad and junk food all the time, it will show in your skin. Don’t forget to drink lots of water. Stay healthy and good luck!