Steamed Fonio

Fonio. Often grouped under superfoods or miracle foods,  the fonio grain or cereal (Digitaria exilis), is relatively new to many but has quickly gained recognition. Fonio is native to West Africa and has a high nutritional value. You may or may not have heard about fonio and  I wasn’t familiar with the grain myself until about 3 years ago. This article gives a good overview of the grain.

So far I have used the grains to make a delicious salad with grilled chicken, vegetables and then rounded it off with a tangy dressing.

I have also used fonio in a breakfast porridge with a colourful hibiscus syrup. The hibiscus syrup also adds a slight flowery note, and a beautiful splash of colour to make it not only tasty but also visually appealing.

I find that fonio grains are a bit reminiscent of semolina or couscous but with a more earthy, nutty note. If you are keen to experiment like me, then this a treasure trove filled with all sorts of fonio recipe possibilities.

Today's recipe is pretty simple but packed with flavour. The flour is mixed with water and salt and then steamed. Then to add flavour, it is tossed in a mixture of coconut oil, garlic, onions and thyme. This is a great side that literally goes with any stew or sauce like this mushroom and peppercorn sauce, this very decadent lamb stew or this pork and vegetable stew.