Easy Fonio porridge
Fonio porridge (also known as acha porridge – a rich, nutty flavour and gluten-free porridge made from the ancient African grain Fonio. Cooked with warm spices, served with grilled plums and drizzled with plant-based cream.
It all began with a curiosity; a curiosity to explore the wonders of African ingredients that I had only read and heard about. So, when My friend from Living The Ancestral Way told me that she would be bringing me a bag of fonio, all the way from Ghana, I started dancing, full of joy and excitement!
I had been learning about this grain from my research and had been curious about it ever since. It’s amazing nutritional value content, gluten-free and has heartiness. I couldn’t wait to experience it myself.
But, it wasn’t just the nutrition that impressed me or the fact that it is gluten-free. What really moved me was the story of Fonio. It is a symbol of resilience and a reminder that even the smallest of grains could have a great impact on our lives.
The day I finally opened the bag to admire its texture; it reminded me of Couscous. As I poured the fonio into a pot, I knew that it was more than just a grain. I quickly realised that this grain, so it seemed, had been waiting patiently for me to come across it, and it had brought me something special: a newfound connection with the land. For here in the U.K. far from the African continent, the fonio that was brought from the depths of Ghana brought me a deeper understanding of how the Earth continues to nurture us.
The kind gesture of my friend bringing me this beautiful grain made me realise that no matter where we come from, we all have so much to share and learn from each other. Food can be a powerful connection between people and cultures. if we only take the time to explore and appreciate it.
I can never thank my friend enough for bringing me a bag of Fonio from Ghana, which opened up my eyes to a new way of looking at food, culture, and life.
What is fonio?
If you’re looking for a nutritious and delicious ancient grain, look no further than fonio porridge! If you haven’t heard of Fonio, you’re not alone. This little-known African ingredient is gradually making its way onto the global stage, and for a good reason.
Fonio is a gluten-free grain that is indigenous to West Africa and commonly consumed in countries like Senegal, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Nigeria. It is also one of the most widely cultivated and consumed cereals in the Sahel belt of Africa. Fonio, which resembles couscous, is actually a small-seeded sand-like grain. When cooked, it becomes fluffy and light, making it a great staple food that absorbs flavour well.
There are two types of fonio millet: black and white. The black version is much smaller in size and more nutritious. This African ancient grain has a nutty flavour and a unique texture when cooked, making it a great option for a gluten-free meal and a great alternative to wheat and oatmeal.
The Benefits
Fonio is a versatile grain that can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be cooked like rice or quinoa, used in soups or stews, or even ground into flour. But that’s not all, It is also packed with nutrients, including protein making it a healthy choice. It is rich in fibre, which can help to regulate digestion and keep you feeling full. a good source of protein.
This delicious grain is also a rich source of B vitamins, iron, and selenium. It is also a good source of zinc and copper. Fonio is naturally low in fat, sodium, and sugar. It also has a high concentration of phytonutrients, antioxidants, and other compounds that may help to fight certain health conditions.
How to make Fonio porridge
This a type of breakfast porridge that will have your taste buds singing and have you fuller for longer. Plus, it’s easy to make and a perfect gluten-free breakfast. If you are looking for a nutritious meal that will have you feeling energized throughout the whole day, give this fonio porridge a try. Plus, it’s super easy to make—just add water and let it cook!
To prepare this porridge, rinse the fonio in cold water and drain it to remove the excess husks. Pour cold water into a mixing bowl and add a few ingredients to take this African porridge to the next level; add a little sea salt, spices, plant-based milk or cream, and serve hot or cold.
The ingredients you’ll need to make this fonio porridge
- Fonio: You can get this at most African markets or get it here on Amazon. I like to use this one.
- Mixed spices: You can also use nutmeg, ginger, and cinnamon to create warmth and balance in the porridge.
- Salt: A pinch of sea salt or Himalayan salt will balance the spices in the porridge.
- Sugar: I like to use brown sugar to sweeten the porridge. You can also use a sweetener like date syrup or maple syrup.
Toppings
- Plums: You can grill or cook the plums to add flavour and interest to your porridge. You can use any of your favourite fruits like Apricots, nectarines, apples, or peaches as toppings for this porridge recipe.
- Plant-based cream: Use cream or coconut milk to make a creamy porridge.
- Extra toppings (optional): Add toasted nuts or seeds like almonds, cashews, pumpkin or sunflower seeds to add fats and more protein to the porridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
More hearty breakfasts
- Sorghum porridge
- Super simple, dairy-free pancakes
- Savoury spinach waffles
- Teff Porridge
- Sweet potato Smoothie
Made the recipe?
If you make this recipe, please tag it with @itslivhuwani on Instagram. I’d love to see your creations 🙂
Fonio Porridge
Ingredients
- 1 cup Fonio rinsed and water drained
- 4 cups water
- 1 tsp mixed spice
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
Toppings
- 50 ml plant-based cream
- 1 Plum halved and pitted
Instructions
- Wash the fonio by placing it in a large bowl and covering it with water. Stir it with your fingers, then drain it. Repeat this process until the water runs clear. Drain well. Add the fonio to a large pot with 4 cups of water.
- Bring the fonio to a boil, then add the mixed spice and a pinch of salt, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring constantly, until the fonio has absorbed all the liquid.
- Meanwhile, in a saucepan or skillet, grill the peaches for about a minute or until the grill marks have formed. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Stir the cream into the fonio and continue to cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, for 10–15 minutes until you get a thick, creamy porridge. Remove from the heat, add the sugar and stir well. Top with grilled plums and drizzle with cream, then serve immediately.
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