Gluten-free White Fonio

Our fonio is confirmed pesticide-free by Eurofins. 

Commonly known as the ‘Grain of Life’ or the ‘Hungry Rice,’ Fonio is the smallest and one of the oldest grown and harvested grains in the world. OTI Fonio grain or ekpui / nvoni, as respectively called by the native growers, is cultivated in the Saboba-Chereponi and Zabzugu-Tatali Districts of the Northern Region of Ghana and is traditionally prepared as breakfast cereal or rice / couscous, and used in salads or stews or eaten as a side dish.

Health Benefits: Naturally 100% gluten-free, Fonio is rich in zinc, calcium, magnesium, and has a very low glycaemic index, controls diabetes, contains heart-healthy vitamins, minerals, methionine, and helps strengthen hair and nails. Fonio also helps prevent anemia, detoxes the liver, provides energy, and builds strong bones and teeth.

Fonio as breakfast cereal:

Ingredients (for 2 people):

2 cups of OTI Fonio grains for 6 cups water; pinch of salt, and 1 tablespoon of honey (optional)

Preparation:

In a saucepan, add 2 cups of OTI Fonio grains to 6 cups of water (500ml), a pinch of salt, stir, and bring to a boil. Add more water to obtain desired thickness. Once the substance is creamy, transfer to a bowl. Drizzle with honey, sugar, and/or milk for extra flavor.

Fonio as couscous or rice:

Ingredients (for 2 people):

4 cups of OTI Fonio grains for 4 cups of water, pinch of salt.

In a deep pan, pour 4 cups of OTI Fonio grains. Toast on fire for 2 minutes adding 1 teaspoon of oil (optional) and a pinch of salt. Add 4 cups of hot water and stir. Cover the pan and cook for 10-25 minutes till water is absorbed for grains to puff-up and expand. Leave Fonio on low heat and allow it to cook, if you still find it too chewy for your taste. Serve the cooked Fonio grains with a spicy vegetable sauce or the condiment of your choice.