Recipe adapted with permission fromThe Fonio Cookbook, Lake Isle Press, 2019.
At their home, they ate a grain called fonio.
This tiny grain, about the size of couscous, has a particularly delicate texture.
Photo: Brittany Conerly
In addition to its delicate flavor, fonio is quite nutrient-dense.
It has 3 grams of protein and 1 gram of fiber per 12-cup cooked.
Fonio is also a climate-friendly crop.
Its deep roots helpprevent soil erosion and trap carbon in the ground.
Indeed, fonio is easy to cook, and it cooks up fast.
Within 5 minutes, the liquid will be completely absorbed and the fonio cooked.
Come winter, I like to turn fonio into a comforting porridge.
Fonio porridge can be either sweet or savory and can be served at any time of the day.
Because, remember, fonio never embarrasses the cook.
Set aside for about 1 hour to draw out excess liquid.
Meanwhile, prepare beets:Preheat oven to 425F.
Rub beets with 1 tablespoon oil and wrap in foil.
Roast until they are easily pierced by a fork or paring knife, about 1 hour.
Unwrap and let cool, then peel the beets and cut into 1/2-inch pieces.
To prepare fonio & vinaigrette:Cook fonio according to package directions.
Whisk mustard, garlic, vinegar, salt and pepper in a small bowl.
While whisking, slowly add oil until the vinaigrette is emulsified.
Drain the carrot mixture and squeeze out excess liquid.
Place in a large saucepan along with sugar and vinegar.
Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
Cover and remove from the heat.
Let stand off the heat for about 15 minutes.
Transfer the carrots to a large bowl.
Add the beets and fonio; mix well.
Drizzle with 1/2 cup dressing (reserve the remaining dressing for another use) and toss again.
Drain the carrots just before assembling the salad.
Or make the salad in its entirety and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Toss with a bit more oil before serving if the salad seems dry.
- Daily Values (DVs) are the recommended amounts of nutrients to consume each day.
(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient.
