Kunu pronounce (coo-nu) is a popular local drink consumed throughout Nigeria. This drink which originates from the Northern parts of the country, is usually made from grains such as Millet, Tigernut or Sorghum, although it can be also be made from Maize as well. The drink appears as a milky light-brown colour when millet or sorghum is used , whilst made using Tigernuts is somewhat whitish.
This drink with the full name Kunu Zaki (pronounced coo-nu-Zach-key) is not just soothing for when the whether is hot, it comes highly recommended for vegetarians and can be taken as a snack.
Here are some of the health benefits of Kunu;
*Its content is known to help reduce the risks associated with diabetes.
*The key ingredient, millet, contains a poly nutrient called lignin, which is known for its strong cancer-fighting properties.
*Some women who drink Kunu constantly claim that it is good for women that have reached the stage of menopause as it helps relax their muscles.
*Locals also recommend it for nursing mothers as it helps increase the flow of their breast milk.
*Its ginger content helps lower cholesterol level and prevents the formation of blood clots.
*Since it is rich in fibre, it helps to promote a healthy digestive system.
*It also helps in the prevention of chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.
*In some quarters, there are claims that the possible mechanisms of aphrodisiac and fertility- enhancing properties of the individual extracts and their beverage blend of Kunu boosts testosterone level, increase sperm count, decrease anxiety and inhibition of key enzymes involved in erectile process.
With these benefits, it would be nice to know how to make Kunu for the family to enjoy.
Ingredients:
Coconut
Ginger
Cinnamon
Tiger nuts (fresh or dry), millet with either maize or sorghum.
Date palm fruits (fresh or dry).
Method:
- Separate the tiger nuts or which grain you choose from the alternatives, from stone particles.
- Rinse the fresh tiger nut and put it in a clean bowl. For dried tiger nuts, soak it in cold water for at least 48 hours and place in the fridge to ferment.
- Remove the seed and rinse the fresh date palm fruits. For dried date palm fruits, soak in water to soften it.
- Remove the hull from the coconut. Cut the coconut into small slices.
- Peel the skin off the ginger and rinse properly.
- Add the tiger nuts, dates, coconut, ginger and a little water into a blender. Blend the mixture until it is smooth.
Note:
Ensure you water spearingly when blending so the final result is not too watery. - Sieve the content of the blender by using a muslin cloth.
- Add the chaff with water back into the blender. Blend the mixture and squeeze the juice out again with a cloth.
- Pour the juice extracts into clean storage bottles and then refrigerate.
As soon as it is cold to your satisfaction, serve and enjoy the drink kunu alone or when eating a meal.
Don’t let the heat of the summer get to you. This creamy delight is definitely a must-have drink.
Do you know any other local drinks with immense health benefits, please share with us in the comment section.
