Kunun is a popular drink from the Northern part of Nigeria. This drink has three varieties depending on the main ingredient used: Kunun Zaki from millet popularly known as Jero, Kunun Gyada from rice and groundnut, and Kunun Aya from tiger nuts. Today, we will discuss the most popular type, Kunun Zaki.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups of Millet
– 1/2 cup of Sweet Potatoes, peeled and chopped (Optional)
– 1 Ginger (Fresh or Dried)
– 1 teaspoon of Cloves/ Kanafari
– Sugar to taste
– Clean water
Directions:
1. Rinse the millet and other ingredients with clean water to remove dirt and stones.
2. Soak the millet, ginger, sweet potato and the Clove/Kanafari in water overnight to soften it.
3. Blend all the ingredients till smooth.
4. Separate your mixture into two equal parts.
5. Place a pot on fire and add 3 glasses of water. When it starts boiling, add the first part of your mixture to the water and stir (as if you are making pap).
6. Allow to cool for a few minutes.
7. Now pour the other part you’ve kept aside and stir (after a few minutes of stiring, it’s going to be a bit watery. This is okay).
8. Add sugar as desired.
9. Serve chilled.
Please note that Kunun Zaki ferments really fast, so make sure it is stored in a refrigerator to preserve it.
Health benefits of Kunun Zaki
Since it is important to develop a habit of eating healthyfoods only, we have to look at the nutritional benefits as well before we drink it. Well, good news! Research shows that Kunun Zaki is one of the best drinks you can refresh your body with because of the amazing, health friendly ingredients present in it.
According to research, millet contains a polynutrient called lignan, which has cancer fighting properties and is beneficial in the treatment of heart diseases.
It is also known to reduce the risks associated with diabetes and helps prevent chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.
The ginger present in the drink helps to lower cholesterol level and prevents the formation of blood clots. It has also been proven that it promotes a healthy digestive system.
Sweet potatoes are rich in complex carbohydrates, dietary fiber and beta-carotene, Vitamin B and Vitamin C. Sweet potatoes have also been said to be useful in the treatment of anaemia and several premenstrual symptoms.
So, what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a trial and enjoy a cold glass of Kunun Zaki this weekend.
About the Writer: Rabiat Abdulkareem is a graduate of Chemistry from University of Ilorin. She is passionate about food, travel and books. Connect with her on twitter @rabiatota
