DRINKS
Check Out This Kunu Drink Recipe And Benefits
Published
8 months agoon
Kunu drink, also known as kunun zaki, is a popular traditional Nigerian beverage made from grains such as millet, sorghum, or maize. This refreshing and nutritious drink is often enjoyed for its slightly tangy flavour and health benefits.
Kunu is particularly cherished in Northern Nigeria, where it is commonly served during special occasions and as a thirst quencher on hot days. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to make kunu drink at home.
Ingredients for making Kunu drink
- To make Kunu, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of millet (you can also use sorghum or maize)
- 1 medium-sized sweet potato or a few slices of ginger (optional, for flavour)
- 1 teaspoon of cloves
- 1 teaspoon of black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon of dry chilli pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Sugar or honey to taste
- Water
Equipment you’ll need
- A large bowl
- A blender or food processor
- A fine sieve or cheesecloth
- A large pot
- A stirring spoon
How to make Kunu drink
Step 1: Soak the grains
1. Clean the grains: Start by cleaning the millet thoroughly. Remove any stones, dirt, or impurities.
2. Soak the grains: Place the cleaned millet in a large bowl and cover with water. Let it soak for at least 8 hours or overnight. This helps to soften the grains and makes blending easier.
Step 2: Blend the mixture
1. Prepare the spices: While the grains are soaking, you can prepare the spices. Peel and chop the sweet potato or ginger into small pieces.
2. Blend the grains and spices: Drain the soaked millet and transfer it to a blender. Add the chopped sweet potato or ginger, cloves, black peppercorns, and dry chilli pepper if using. Add enough water to cover the ingredients and blend until you get a smooth paste.
Step 3: Strain the mixture
1. Strain the paste: Pour the blended mixture into a large bowl lined with a fine sieve or cheesecloth. Strain the mixture, squeezing out as much liquid as possible. This liquid is the kunu extract.
2. Repeat if necessary: If the mixture is too thick to strain, you can add a little more water and blend again before straining.
Step 4: Cook the Kunu
1. Heat the Kunu extract: Pour the strained Kunu extract into a large pot. Add more water if necessary to achieve your desired consistency. Kunu should be thick but drinkable.
2. Cook the mixture: Heat the pot over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Cook the mixture for about 10–15 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes smooth.
3. Cool the Kunu: Remove the pot from the heat and allow the kunu to cool completely.
Step 5: Sweeten and serve
1. Sweeten the Kunu: Once the kunu has cooled, add sugar or honey to taste. Stir well to ensure the sweetener is fully dissolved.
2. Chill the drink: Transfer the kunu to a refrigerator and chill for at least an hour before serving. Kunu is best enjoyed cold.
Tips for making Kunu drink
- Experiment with flavours: You can customise your Kunu drink by adding different spices or flavours, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla.
- Adjust the consistency: If you prefer a thicker or thinner drink, adjust the amount of water used during blending and cooking.
- Storage: Kunu drink can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Stir well before serving, as it may settle over time.
Health Benefits of Kunu drink
Kunu is not only delicious but also nutritious. It is rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals, making it a healthy addition to your diet. The spices used in Kunu, such as cloves and ginger, also offer various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.
In conclusion, making Kunu drink at home is a simple process that involves soaking, blending, straining, and cooking grains with spices. This traditional Nigerian drink is a delightful way to enjoy the flavours and health benefits of millet, sorghum, or maize.
Whether you’re new to Kunu or a long-time fan, this guide will help you create a refreshing beverage that everyone can enjoy.
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DRINKS
3 Best Nigerian Drink Recipes To Share Love This Season
Published
4 weeks agoon
December 22, 2024Are you planning to celebrate the holiday season by inviting loved ones to share delicious moments? You can delight them with Nigerian drink recipes for Christmas that inspire joy and connection.
Drinks play a central role in festive gatherings, making them the perfect way to create cherished memories. Here are three traditional and modern Nigerian drink recipes for Christmas that will elevate your festive experience.
1. Zobo (Hibiscus Tea)
Zobo is a refreshing and tangy drink made from dried hibiscus petals. This vibrant beverage is a favourite at Nigerian gatherings and a symbol of hospitality. It’s rich in flavour and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- Dried hibiscus petals (zobo leaves)
- Pineapple peels and ginger
- Cloves (optional)
- Sugar or honey
- Water
Preparation:
- Rinse the zobo leaves to remove impurities.
- Boil them with pineapple peels, ginger, and cloves for added flavour.
- Strain the liquid and sweeten it with sugar or honey.
- Serve chilled for a refreshing Christmas drink.
Zobo is versatile and can be infused with fruit juices for a personalised touch. It’s an iconic inclusion in Nigerian drink recipes for Christmas.
2. Nigerian Chapman
Chapman is often called “Nigeria’s cocktail.” This sparkling, fruity drink combines bold flavours and a touch of nostalgia. It’s a great non-alcoholic option to add sparkle to your celebrations.
Ingredients:
- Grenadine syrup
- Lemon-lime soda and bitter lemon
- Slices of orange, lemon, and cucumber
- Ice cubes
Preparation:
- In a glass, mix grenadine syrup with ice cubes.
- Add equal parts of lemon-lime soda and bitter lemon.
- Garnish with orange, lemon slices, and cucumber.
Chapman is perfect for sharing festive cheer with family and friends. Its sweet and tangy taste makes it a staple in Nigerian drink recipes for Christmas.
3. Tiger Nut Milk (Kunun Aya)
This creamy, nutritious drink is made from tiger nuts, a superfood cherished for its health benefits. Tiger nut milk is a wholesome way to toast to health and happiness this holiday season.
Ingredients:
- Tiger nuts (soaked overnight)
- Water
- Sweeteners like dates or honey
- Optional: vanilla or cinnamon for added flavour
Preparation:
- Blend the soaked tiger nuts with water until smooth.
- Strain the mixture using a muslin cloth or fine sieve.
- Sweeten with dates or honey and flavour with vanilla or cinnamon.
Tiger nut milk is dairy-free and loaded with nutrients, making it a unique addition to Nigerian Christmas drink recipes.
Tips for Serving Nigerian Christmas Drinks
- Elevate Presentation: Use decorative glasses or jars and garnish with fresh fruits or herbs.
- Chill Well: Serve your drinks cold to enhance their refreshing qualities.
- Customise Flavours: Add seasonal spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to give traditional recipes a holiday twist.
These Nigerian drink recipes for Christmas embody the essence of love, warmth, and togetherness. With each sip, you’ll be creating memories that linger long after the celebrations are over. Cheers to a flavourful and joyous holiday season!
For more detailed recipes, check here.
DRINKS
More Benefits To Pineapple Than You Think? Check These Out
Published
1 month agoon
December 8, 2024Pineapple drink isn’t just a tropical delight – it’s a powerhouse of health benefits. From boosting immunity to enhancing skin health, this vibrant fruit packs a punch.
Let’s explore the surprising benefits of pineapple drink, why you should incorporate it into your diet, and how it impacts overall health.
1. Rich Source of Nutrients
Pineapple is loaded with vitamins, especially vitamin C, and minerals like manganese and potassium. These nutrients support essential bodily functions, from boosting energy to strengthening bones.
Key Benefits:
- Vitamin C enhances immunity and skin health.
- Manganese supports bone density and metabolism.
- Bromelain, a unique enzyme, aids digestion and reduces inflammation.
2. Boosts Immunity
One major benefit of pineapple drink is its ability to fortify the immune system. Thanks to its high vitamin C content, it helps fight off infections and supports wound healing. Regular consumption keeps common colds at bay and enhances the body’s defence mechanism.
3. Promotes Digestive Health
Bromelain, found only in pineapples, plays a vital role in digestion. This enzyme breaks down proteins, making them easier to absorb.
It reduces bloating and aids in relieving constipation. Including pineapple drink in your diet ensures smoother digestion and gut health.
4. Fights Inflammation
The anti-inflammatory properties of pineapple, particularly due to bromelain, help combat chronic conditions like arthritis and sinusitis.
It reduces swelling and relieves pain, especially after surgery or intense exercise. Studies suggest bromelain may even complement antibiotic treatments, improving their effectiveness.
5. Supports Healthy Skin
Pineapple drink benefits your skin in multiple ways. Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, it fights free radicals that cause ageing.
It promotes collagen production, keeping skin firm and radiant. Drinking pineapple juice can also help reduce acne and lighten blemishes.
6. Improves Heart Health
Drinking pineapple regularly supports cardiovascular health. Its high potassium content helps regulate blood pressure by counteracting sodium’s effects.
Antioxidants in pineapple reduce oxidative stress, lowering the risk of heart disease. Fibre from fresh pineapple drinks lowers cholesterol levels, enhancing heart function.
7. Enhances Eye Health
Pineapple drink contains beta-carotene and vitamin A, crucial for eye health. These nutrients protect against age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
Regular consumption can help maintain clear vision and prevent eye-related disorders as you age.
8. Supports Bone Strength
Manganese in pineapple is essential for maintaining strong bones. This mineral, combined with calcium and copper, helps prevent osteoporosis and improves bone density.
Regular intake is particularly beneficial for postmenopausal women, reducing the risk of fractures.
9. Helps Weight Management
Pineapple is low in calories but rich in fibre, making it an ideal snack for weight management. It keeps you full for longer and prevents unnecessary cravings.
However, pineapple drinks should be consumed in moderation due to their natural sugar content.
10. Aids in Respiratory Health
For those with asthma or bronchial issues, pineapple drink offers significant relief. Bromelain reduces airway inflammation and improves breathing. Vitamin C further helps reduce symptoms related to allergic asthma.
11. Potential Cancer-Fighting Properties
Research suggests that pineapple may help combat cancer cells. Bromelain’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects inhibit tumour growth and enhance the body’s immune response.
Regular consumption of pineapple drinks could be a preventive measure against certain cancers.
12. Protects Against Infections
Bromelain’s antibacterial properties help protect against harmful bacteria like E. coli. Some studies indicate that combining pineapple with antibiotics enhances their effectiveness.
Including pineapple in your diet strengthens your overall defence against infections.
How to Maximise the Benefits
For optimal results, choose fresh or cold-pressed pineapple juice. Avoid processed versions with added sugars. Drinking 8 ounces of pure pineapple juice daily provides ample nutrients without excessive sugar intake.
The benefits of pineapple drink extend beyond its tropical taste. From boosting immunity to supporting bone health and fighting inflammation, this fruit offers impressive advantages.
Make pineapple a regular part of your diet and enjoy its myriad health benefits.
Incorporating pineapple into your daily routine provides more than just flavour—it’s a step towards better health. Embrace this superfruit and experience its remarkable benefits.
For more articles on drinks, check here.
DRINKS
Are Alcoholic Drinks Only Harmful? See Surprising Health Benefits
Published
2 months agoon
November 30, 2024Research indicates that moderate alcohol consumption may offer subtle health benefits. Specific drinks contain compounds that can potentially provide modest wellness advantages when consumed judiciously.
However, experts emphasize that these benefits are minimal and do not outweigh the risks of alcohol consumption. Individuals should consult healthcare professionals before considering alcohol as part of their health strategy.
Reduced Risk of Heart Disease
One of the most well-known health benefits of alcoholic drinks is their potential to reduce the risk of heart disease.
Studies have shown that moderate alcohol consumption can increase levels of “good” cholesterol (HDL) and decrease levels of “bad” cholesterol (LDL).
Additionally, alcohol can help prevent blood clots, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
Lower Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
Research suggests that moderate alcohol consumption may lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Alcohol can increase insulin sensitivity, helping the body use insulin more effectively.
However, it’s crucial to remember that excessive alcohol intake can lead to insulin resistance, which can increase the risk of diabetes.
Potential Cognitive Benefits
Some studies have indicated that moderate alcohol consumption may help protect against cognitive decline and reduce the risk of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease.
The antioxidants and other compounds found in certain alcoholic beverages, such as red wine, may play a role in these protective effects.
Stress Relief and Improved Mood
Alcohol is often used socially to relax and unwind. It can help reduce stress and anxiety, and it may even improve mood in small doses.
However, it’s important to be aware that excessive alcohol consumption can lead to negative mood changes and worsen mental health conditions.
Potential Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Certain compounds found in alcoholic beverages, such as polyphenols, have anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds may help reduce inflammation throughout the body, which can contribute to various health conditions.
Reduced Risk of Gallstones
Moderate alcohol consumption has been linked to a reduced risk of gallstones, which are small, hard substances that form in the gallbladder. Alcohol can help regulate bile flow, which may help prevent gallstone formation.
Social Benefits
Alcohol has been a part of social gatherings and celebrations for centuries. Moderate alcohol consumption can facilitate social interaction and bonding, which can have positive effects on mental health.
Consuming alcoholic drinks in moderation is essential to gain their health benefits. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to a wide range of health problems. This includes liver damage, addiction, and increased risk of various cancers.
If you choose to drink alcohol, it’s crucial to do so responsibly and in moderation. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine what is considered moderate drinking for you.
Remember, the key to reaping the potential health benefits of alcoholic drinks is to drink responsibly and in moderation.
For more reads on drinks, click here.
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