If you’ve ever traveled through northern Nigeria or visited a Hausa community, you’ve likely come across the beloved duo of Fura Da Nono. This classic drink is not just a delightful treat; it is a cultural emblem that embodies the warmth and hospitality of the northern Nigerian people. Fura da Nono translates to Millet and Milk.
Fura or doonu is a type of food originating from West Africa's Sahel region and that is popular among the Zarma-Songhai, Fulani and Hausa peoples of the Sahel. It is also eaten in Niger and Ghana. The fura food and the fura da nono drink are popular in Northern Nigeria.
Fura da Nono isn’t just a drink; it’s a narrative woven into the fabric of northern Nigerian culture. Originating from the Hausa and Fulani communities, this nutritious beverage has been enjoyed for generations. In a bustling market or at family gatherings, the aroma of freshly made Fura da Nono fills the air, inviting people to stop, chat, and enjoy a moment of connection. For many, the process of making Fura da Nono is a cherished family tradition, passed down through generations.
Fura de nunu as we fondly called it was one of the drinks I looked forward to having when I was younger, we would wait around for the vendors to come by with their calabash.
Recently, I paid my auntie Lola a visit, and she made me this delicious Nunu drink. And absolutely nothing had changed about its taste or how it made me feel. To be honest, my recipe for this drink might seem a little unconventional because I learnt how to make it from my aunt and not some cookbook or manual. And I have been using her method for a long time now, and it has gotten amazing reviews from people who have tasted ‘my Fura Da Nunu’.
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Enjoy the ride as I tell you all my secrets to making this Nunu drink taste really amazing.
How To Make Fura/Fula From Scratch (Fura Da Nono 2 ways).
What is Fura Da Nono?
Fura Da Nunu is a refreshing, locally made drink from fermented milk and ground millet grains. It is produced and consumed mostly by the Fulani. It is translated into English as Millet and Milk. Nunu is locally fermented cow milk which resembles yoghourt in thickness but isn’t quite as thick, while Fura is the millet.
Ingredients for Fura Da Nono
Before diving into the preparation, ensure you have all your ingredients at hand. Fura da Nono is simple yet satisfying, relying on fresh and quality components for the best results.
- 1.5 cup Millet
- 1.5 tbsp Alligator Pepper
- 1.5 tbsp Gingers
- 4 cups Nunu (Kafir Milk)
- 3 tbsp Sugar to taste
How to Make Fura
Millet is the foundation of Fura, and preparing it correctly is essential. If using raw millet grains, wash them thoroughly and then dry them before grinding them into fine flour. Once your millet flour is ready, combine it with your spices (if you’re adding any) and a pinch of salt. In a large bowl, gradually add warm water to the millet flour mixture while stirring continuously. Aim for a smooth dough that is firm yet pliable.
Cooking the Fura
Next comes the cooking process. Traditionally, the fura balls are either steamed or boiled. Steaming them in a pot of boiling water helps to keep them soft and moist. As the fura cooks, it fills the kitchen with a warm, nutty aroma that instantly evokes feelings of comfort and nostalgia.
Read also: Refreshing Fura Da Nunu
Making the Nono
While your fura is cooling, it’s time to make the nono. Traditionally, nono is crafted by fermenting fresh cow’s milk for several hours, resulting in a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Properly wash the millet.
- Soak the millet for 5mins in hot water to make it soft and easy to blend.
- Drain the water.
- Put the millet into a blender. Add the alligator pepper, ginger and a cup of water. Blend until it is smooth.
- Pour the mix into a pot and cook on medium heat until it thickens and forms a dough.
- Scoop the millet dough into a bowl and set aside.
- Add in nono (kafir) and gently mash millet dough.
- Add the Nunu (Kafir Milk) to the millet dough and mix properly.
- Add sugar to taste.
- Your Fura Da Nunu (Kafir Milk) is ready.
Now, the exciting part begins! In a large bowl, crumble the cooled fura into smaller pieces or mash them, depending on your preferred texture. Pour the chilled nono over the fura and mix it all together.
Traditionally, the vendors mold the fura into a ball and it’s mashed into the milk just before serving. This is a nifty trick as it gives the vendors an opportunity to sell two distinct products. When you make this at home, there is no need to first make the millet into a ball, simply process and combine.
While the traditional way to enjoy Fura da Nono is plain, feel free to sweeten it slightly with a touch of sugar or honey if you like a sweeter flavor. Your Fura da Nono is ready to be served! Traditionally, it’s best enjoyed cold, especially on a warm day. As you take your first sip, the rich creaminess of the nono melds with the wholesome, slightly spiced fura, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
Tips for the Perfect Fura Da Nono
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to try different spices or sweeteners.
- Share the Experience: Making Fura da Nono is a fantastic activity to do with friends or family.
- Enjoy Responsibly: Fura da Nono can be filling, so it’s a great choice for a quick meal or snack.
Health Benefits of Fura Da Nunu
Also, millet helps in fat metabolism and repair of body tissues and provides energy for the body. The Vitamin B3 contained in the Millet helps to lower cholesterol levels. Nunu (fermented cow milk) contains high amounts of proteins and bone-building calcium. It is also an excellent source of probiotics which helps to eradicate harmful microorganisms that may cause intestinal infections.
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| Nutrient | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Millet | Fat metabolism, tissue repair, energy |
| Vitamin B3 | Lowers cholesterol |
| Nunu (Fermented Cow Milk) | High protein, bone-building calcium, probiotics |
Conclusion
With this guide, you’re not just making a drink; you’re connecting with a rich cultural history that spans generations. Making Fura da Nono at home isn’t just about following a recipe; it’s about celebrating the rich culture of the Hausa people and the traditions that have shaped their communities for centuries. For those who have enjoyed Fura da Nono in northern Nigeria, this drink can evoke powerful memories of hospitality, warmth, and community. The next time you’re in the mood for something refreshing and hearty, why not try making Fura da Nono?
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