Ghana is one of the countries in West Africa that grows and harvests Fonio. Unlike other countries in the region, Ghana grows the 'white' Fonio, only. The texture and appearance is similar to garri, couscous or quinoa. But unlike quinoa, Fonio contains more amino acids, which is good for pregnant women.
Gradually –and finally – the world is getting to know about and appreciate Fonio, once again.
Known as the ‘Grain of Life’ or the ‘Hungry Rice,’ Fonio is the smallest and one of the oldest grown and harvested grains throughout West Africa.
The grain, which used to be part of the diet of West Africans in the 1970’s became very unpopular –for whichever reason –in the mid 1990’s. Fonio is among the 25 forgotten crops, which is now being rediscovered for its many health benefits.
Naturally 100% gluten-free, Fonio is full of Vitamin B and rich in calcium, magnesium, and zinc. It helps strengthen hair and nails, and build strong bones and teeth, and controls diabetes.
It also provides energy, detoxes the liver, and prevents anemia. Containing a significant amount of fiber, the ‘Grain of Life’ reduces constipation and bloat. Fonio improves heart health, as it is a low homocysteine food.
Ghana is one of the countries in West Africa that grows and harvests Fonio. Unlike other countries in the region, Ghana grows the ‘white’ Fonio, only. The texture and appearance is similar to garri, couscous or quinoa. But unlike quinoa, Fonio contains more amino acids, which is good for pregnant women.
Fonio is very easy to prepare. The Fonio grain can be prepared as a breakfast cereal (porridge) or as a principal meal (rice or couscous) – it is usually accompanied with vegetable stews or spicy sauce.
Fonio can also be used in salads or eaten as a side dish. The Fonio grain is milled into flour, which is often mixed with wheat flour for baking. It is also proven that the indigenous people of the Northern part of Ghana have always used Fonio grain to brew beer.
Below is a flowchart of how Organic Trade & Investments processes its Fonio paddy grains into a nutritious precooked Fonio.
You can buy your 1kg pack of precooked Fonio or Fonio flour online.
