Rolled Fonio
Grains
Nutri-ScoreA

Rolled Fonio

Digitaria exilis

Clinical Encyclopedia

Rolled fonio is a highly nutritious ancient grain known for its light texture and nutty flavor. It is rich in essential amino acids and minerals, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet.

Also known as:
Fonio (West Africa)Acha (Nigeria)
Scientific NameDigitaria exilis
Region of OriginWest Africa

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories370 kcal
Water
10%
Fiber7g
Total87.0g
Protein
9.5g(11%)
Fats
3.5g(4%)
Carbohydrates
74g(85%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.1 mg (8%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.1 mg (6%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)1.5 mg (9%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.3 mg (6%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.1 mg (5%)
Folate20 µg (5%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin A: 0 µgVitamin C: 0 mgVitamin D: 0 µgVitamin E: 0.1 mgVitamin K: 0 µgVitamin B12: 0 µgCholine: 0 mg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium20 mg (2%)
Iron2 mg (11%)
Magnesium80 mg (20%)
Phosphorus150 mg (12%)
Potassium300 mg (6%)
Zinc1 mg (9%)
Copper0.2 mg (22%)
Manganese0.5 mg (26%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Selenium: 0.5 µg

Health Benefits

Rolled fonio is gluten-free and rich in fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes gut health.
It contains a high level of essential amino acids, particularly methionine and cysteine, which are important for muscle repair and overall health.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!No clinically significant precautions or contraindications have been documented for this food in standard dietary intake.

How to Prepare & Consume

Rolled fonio can be cooked like rice or quinoa, typically requiring a 1:2 ratio of fonio to water. It can also be used in salads, soups, or as a side dish.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose rolled fonio that is free from moisture and has a light color. Avoid any packages with broken seals or signs of pests.

How to Store

Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
AntioxidantAnti-inflammatory
Main Applications
Nutritional support for gluten-free diets
Culinary use in traditional West African dishes
Bioactive Compounds
Phenolic acids

Exhibit antioxidant properties that help reduce oxidative stress.

How to Consume
Cooked, as a grain base, in salads, or as porridge
Did you know?

"Fonio is one of the oldest cultivated grains in Africa, dating back over 5,000 years."

Myths vs Realities

MythFonio is only a food for the poor.
RealityFonio is a highly nutritious grain that is gaining popularity worldwide for its health benefits.
MythAll grains contain gluten.
RealityMany grains, including fonio, are naturally gluten-free and safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
MythFonio is difficult to cook.
RealityFonio is easy to cook and can be prepared quickly, similar to rice or quinoa.

Healthy Recipes

Rolled Fonio Breakfast Bowl

Start your day with a nourishing breakfast bowl featuring rolled fonio, topped with fresh fruits and nuts for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup rolled fonio
  • 2 cups almond milk
  • 1 banana, sliced
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
  1. 1. In a saucepan, bring almond milk to a boil and add rolled fonio.
  2. 2. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the fonio is fluffy.
  3. 3. Serve in a bowl, topped with banana slices, walnuts, honey, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Savory Rolled Fonio Salad

This vibrant salad combines rolled fonio with roasted vegetables and a zesty lemon dressing for a refreshing meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup rolled fonio
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook rolled fonio in vegetable broth according to package instructions.
  2. 2. Roast the diced vegetables in olive oil at 400°F for 20 minutes.
  3. 3. Combine cooked fonio, roasted vegetables, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a large bowl and toss to combine.

Rolled Fonio and Black Bean Tacos

These healthy tacos feature rolled fonio and black beans, topped with avocado and salsa for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup rolled fonio
  • 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • Cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Prepare rolled fonio according to package instructions.
  2. 2. Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet over medium heat.
  3. 3. Fill each tortilla with fonio, black beans, avocado slices, and salsa, then garnish with cilantro.

Rolled Fonio Veggie Stir-Fry

A quick and nutritious stir-fry featuring rolled fonio and colorful vegetables, perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup rolled fonio
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook rolled fonio according to package instructions.
  2. 2. In a large pan, heat sesame oil and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant.
  3. 3. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, then combine with fonio and soy sauce.

Rolled Fonio Energy Bites

These no-bake energy bites made with rolled fonio, nut butter, and seeds are perfect for a quick snack on the go.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup rolled fonio
  • 1/2 cup almond butter
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup chia seeds
  • 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix together rolled fonio, almond butter, honey, chia seeds, and chocolate chips.
  2. 2. Form the mixture into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
  3. 3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Rolled Fonio and Spinach Stuffed Peppers

Bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of rolled fonio, spinach, and spices, then baked to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers, halved
  • 1 cup rolled fonio
  • 2 cups spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook rolled fonio according to package instructions.
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine cooked fonio, spinach, feta, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the mixture into halved bell peppers and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes.

Rolled Fonio Coconut Pudding

A creamy and indulgent coconut pudding made with rolled fonio, perfect for a healthy dessert option.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup rolled fonio
  • 2 cups coconut milk
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup shredded coconut
Instructions
  1. 1. In a saucepan, combine rolled fonio, coconut milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
  2. 2. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until thickened (about 15 minutes).
  3. 3. Serve chilled, topped with shredded coconut.

Rolled Fonio and Chickpea Bowl

A hearty bowl featuring rolled fonio and chickpeas, drizzled with tahini dressing for a protein-packed meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup rolled fonio
  • 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook rolled fonio according to package instructions.
  2. 2. In a bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Combine fonio and chickpeas, then drizzle with tahini dressing before serving.

Rolled Fonio and Berry Parfait

A delightful parfait layered with rolled fonio, yogurt, and fresh berries, perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup rolled fonio
  • 2 cups Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/4 cup granola
Instructions
  1. 1. Prepare rolled fonio according to package instructions and let cool.
  2. 2. In a glass, layer Greek yogurt, rolled fonio, mixed berries, and granola.
  3. 3. Drizzle honey on top and serve immediately.

Rolled Fonio and Lentil Soup

A comforting and nutritious soup made with rolled fonio and lentils, perfect for a cozy meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup rolled fonio
  • 1 cup lentils, rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
  2. 2. Add lentils, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper, and bring to a boil.
  3. 3. Stir in rolled fonio and simmer for 20 minutes until lentils are tender.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is rolled fonio gluten-free?

Yes, rolled fonio is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

How do you cook rolled fonio?

To cook rolled fonio, use a 1:2 ratio of fonio to water, bring to a boil, then simmer for about 10-15 minutes until fluffy.

What are the health benefits of fonio?

Fonio is rich in fiber, protein, and essential amino acids, which can support digestion, muscle repair, and overall health.

Can fonio be used in baking?

Yes, fonio flour can be used in baking as a gluten-free alternative to wheat flour.

Where can I buy rolled fonio?

Rolled fonio can be found in health food stores, specialty grocery stores, and online.

How should fonio be stored?

Store rolled fonio in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Is fonio a complete protein?

Yes, fonio contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source.

What dishes can I make with fonio?

Fonio can be used in salads, porridge, as a side dish, or in baked goods.