RecipesGambiaFonio Coconut Porridge

Fonio Coconut Porridge

A nutritious and gluten-free breakfast option, Fonio Coconut Porridge is made from the ancient West African grain, fonio, cooked with creamy coconut milk. It's a versatile dish that can be customized with various toppings and sweeteners, offering sustained energy.

Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Servings4
DifficultyEasy
Fonio Coconut Porridge - Gambia traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 200 g Fonio
  • 350 ml Water(warm)
  • 450 ml Coconut milk(warm)
  • 0.5 tablespoon Brown sugar(or to taste)
  • 0.5 teaspoon Salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon Nutmeg powder
  • 0.25 teaspoon Cinnamon powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon Vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons Margarine or vegan spread(for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar(for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon Coconut flakes(for topping)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    In a saucepan, combine the fonio, warm water, brown sugar, and salt. Stir well.

    💡 Tip: Rinsing the fonio before use is recommended by some sources to remove any dust or debris.
  2. 2

    Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then cover and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the water has been absorbed and the fonio grains are starting to soften.

  3. 3

    Turn off the heat. Slowly stir in the warm coconut milk until well combined. Add the nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Stir again.

    💡 Tip: Using warm liquids helps to create a smoother porridge.
  4. 4

    Cover the pot and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the fonio to absorb the remaining liquid and thicken to your desired consistency.

  5. 5

    While the porridge rests, prepare the topping: In a small saucepan, melt the margarine over medium heat. Add the sugar and stir until it caramelizes into a light brown syrup.

  6. 6

    Pour the caramelized sugar mixture over the porridge in the serving bowls. Sprinkle with coconut flakes.

    💡 Tip: Alternatively, serve the porridge plain and allow individuals to add their preferred toppings like fresh fruit, nuts, or honey.
  7. 7

    Serve the Fonio Coconut Porridge warm.

    💡 Tip: This porridge can be made in a larger batch and reheated during the week.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Fonio is a naturally gluten-free ancient grain, making this a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more or less sugar, or using alternative sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
  • Experiment with different toppings such as fresh berries, sliced banana, chopped nuts, or seeds.

🔄 Variations

  • Use almond milk or other plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
  • Add a tablespoon of peanut butter for extra richness and protein.
  • Incorporate dried fruits like raisins or dates for added sweetness and texture.

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