Fura da Nono
A traditional and refreshing Northern Nigerian drink made from millet balls (fura) served in tangy fermented milk (nono).
🧂 Ingredients
- 300g Millet flour(Ensure it's finely ground for a smooth dough.)
- approx. 150-200ml Water(For the dough. Use hot water to help bind the flour.)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh ginger(Finely grated or minced for best flavor distribution.)
- 1 liter Fermented milk (nono)(This is a key ingredient providing a unique tangy flavor. Can be store-bought or homemade. Ensure it's well-chilled.)
- to taste Sugar(Adjust according to your preference for sweetness.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Fura Dough: In a bowl, gradually add hot water to the millet flour while mixing with a spoon or spatula. Continue adding water and mixing until a stiff, cohesive dough forms. It should be firm enough to hold its shape but not dry or crumbly. This process should take about 10 minutes.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Flavor and Shape the Fura: Add the grated ginger to the millet dough. Knead the dough for a few minutes to evenly distribute the ginger. Then, pinch off small portions of the dough and roll them between your palms to form small, uniform balls, about the size of marbles or small grapes. This shaping process should take about 10 minutes.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 3
Cook the Fura Balls: Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil (approximately 100°C / 212°F). Carefully drop the shaped millet balls into the boiling water. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the balls float to the surface and appear cooked through. They should be firm but tender. Drain the cooked fura balls and set aside.
⏱️ 20 minutes - 4
Assemble the Fura da Nono: In a serving pitcher or bowl, combine the chilled fermented milk (nono) with the cooked fura balls. Add sugar to taste, starting with a small amount and adding more as needed. Stir gently to combine.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Serve: Mix everything thoroughly. For the best experience, chill the mixture further in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. Serve cold in individual glasses or bowls. The fura balls will settle at the bottom, so you may want to stir before each serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The tanginess of the nono is crucial for the authentic flavor. If you can't find traditional nono, a very plain, unsweetened yogurt can be a substitute, though the flavor will be different.
- ✓Adjust the amount of ginger to your liking. A little goes a long way.
- ✓The texture of the fura balls should be slightly chewy, not mushy.
- ✓This drink is incredibly refreshing, especially in hot weather.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Sweetness can be adjusted from very little sugar to quite sweet.
- For a thicker consistency, use less nono or add a small amount of plain yogurt.
- For a thinner consistency, add a little more nono or even a splash of cold water.
- Some variations include adding a pinch of salt to the dough or a touch of honey instead of sugar.