Fonio is a super grain and is considered the most nutritious and oldest of all grains around the world. It also cooks very quickly.
Gluten-free foods are quite popular, and old grains like buckwheat, teff, quinoa, and amaranth are becoming mainstream. But have you heard of Fonio? This African heritage grain is one of the oldest cultivated crops in the world.
Botanical Name: Digitaria exilis
USDA Zone: 9-11
Fonio Information
Fonio (Digitaria exilis) is also known as ‘fundi,’ ‘acha,’ and ‘hungry rice.’ This whole grain is high in fiber because it has bran attached to it. You can find it in both white and black color. White fonio is grown as an annual millet for its seeds.
It has been cultivated in West Africa for many years. Fonio is usually cooked during Ramadan and at weddings.
Growing fonio in Africa is ideal because it thrives in poor, rocky, or sandy soils where other cereal grains struggle. It has a short growing cycle and reaches maturity in just 6 weeks to 2 months, much faster than other grains.
Propagating Fonio
You can propagate fonio from seeds in spring and summer. Sow the seeds in loose, dry soil. During germination, it needs consistent watering and gentle, light irrigation when plant is one month old.
The seeds are broadcast and lightly covered with soil. They germinate within 2 to 4 days and grow rapidly.
Ideal Growing Conditions for Growing Fonio
Light
Grow fonio in full sunlight in areas with warm temperature. Avoid partially shaded locations as they stop formation of the seed heads.
Soil
Select a well-draining growing medium, though it can tolerate any type of soil, even heavy clay if amended and loosened before planting.
Water
Fonio can conserve water after germination. Apart from rain, it receives little water in Africa. To keep the soil moist, furrows near the rows that catch rain can help. Manure can also be spread near the plants to keep the soil moist.
Issues While Growing Fonio
Seed shatter can significantly impact crop yields. It is also susceptible to Pangola stunt, which is a viral disease that leads to yellowing and twisting of stems and leaves, as well as undersized inflorescence. This disease is transmitted by the white-backed planthopper. Once the plant is infected, the virus cannot be controlled. You can use insecticidal soaps to manage the planthopper population.
Harvesting and Usage
Fonio is harvested in Africa using traditional methods. Sickles are used to cut plants, which are then hung in sheaves for drying. The dry plants are then beaten to release the seed, which is then collected.
This grain is consumed after cooking. It is frequently ground into flour for use in bread and other baked goods. The grain is also commonly fermented. Additionally, whole grains can be popped similarly to popcorn. You can prepare porridge or couscous from it.
Recipe: Rinse the fonio before cooking, then soak the grain in twice its amount of boiling water, cover it, and let it sit for 5 minutes. Alternatively, toast it in oil and then simmer it on medium heat with twice as much water. Fluff with a fork and relish it like couscous, rice, or other grains.
Benefits of Fonio
Fonio matures early. It is high in amino acids, protein, and micronutrients. It is a good source of zinc, vitamin B, and iron. This superfood has a low glycemic index and is gluten-free.
It is also good for skin, hair, teeth, and digestion. This super grain makes the heart healthy, regulates diabetes, and treats anemia.