Scientific name: Achaemylinites exilis
Other names: Fonio is also known by many different names, including Fonio millet, Acha, and Hungry rice.
Habitat: Fonio is native to the Sahel region of West Africa, particularly in countries such as Senegal, Mali, Guinea, and Burkina Faso. It also grows in Ghana, Ivory Coast and Nigeria
Description: Fonio is a small-grained cereal crop with a light, fluffy texture. It is a fast-growing annual grass that grows to a height of up to three feet. The grains are small and round and range in color from white to yellow.
Status (eg Natural, Hybrid or GMO): Fonio is a natural crop and is not a hybrid or a genetically modified organism (GMO).
Mineral content: Fonio is a good source of minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, and iron. It also contains significant amounts of potassium and calcium.
Medicinal value: Fonio has a range of medicinal properties and is believed to be beneficial for treating digestive issues, such as constipation, as well as skin diseases and fever.
Culinary use: Fonio is often eaten as a porridge, but it can also be used as a side dish, in soups and stews, and as a stuffing for dumplings. It can also be used to make bread, cakes, and pancakes.
Research information: Recent research has revealed that fonio is a good source of dietary fiber and minerals. It is also a good source of antioxidants, which are thought to be beneficial for health.
pH value: The pH of fonio is 6.0 – 7.0.
Recipes:
Fonio Pilaf
Ingredients:
1 cup fonio
1 onion, chopped
1 teaspoon approved spices
2 tablespoons sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the spices, salt, and pepper and cook for another minute.
4. Add the fonio and cook, stirring, for about 5 minutes.
5. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the fonio is cooked through and fluffy.
Fonio Porridge
Ingredients:
1 cup fonio
2 cups water
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoons approved butter
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Add the fonio and salt and stir to combine.
3. Reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan. Simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the fonio is cooked through and creamy.
4. Stir in the butter and serve.
References:
1. Burlingame, B. (2014, June). Fonio: A West African Staple. Retrieved from https://www.thekitchn.com/fonio-a-west-african-staple-216905
2. Fonio. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.crs-foodsecurity.org/fonio/
3. FoodData Central. (n.d.). Fonio. Retrieved from https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/
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