Fonio- The Super Grain
Updated: May 23
Fonio (a.k.a findo) is the term for two cultivated types of grass in the genus Digitaria family that are notable crops in parts of West Africa. Like millet with small grains, it has a sweet, astringent taste and a drying and cooling nature. Fonio is very nutritious, gluten-free, and high in dietary fiber.
It is a staple food in Africa and is vital to ensuring food security, especially during the post-harvest period when food is scarce. It can be harvested within 6-8 weeks and grows well in drought conditions and poor soils without fertilizers or other implements.
Because fonio has a drying effect, I like to mix it with other grains, specifically oatmeal, which is creamier.
Below is the recipe I am currently using as a breakfast cereal.
Breakfast Recipe – 1 serving
2 Tablespoons (quick) Steel Cut Oats
2 Tablespoons Fonio
1 Tablespoon dried fruit (I use Goji berries)
1 1/2 cups of water and or milk (I use 1/2 water and 1/2 oat milk)
Sweetener to taste
Directions:
If using dried fruits, make sure they are cut into 1/4” dice, or try raisins or Goji berries.
Put all ingredients in the pot, bring to a boil, turn down to a simmer, and cook for 5 minutes.
Cover, let sit a minute or two, and then enjoy.
