Ever wondered how to make the kunu drink you love to consume? Kunu drink, a cherished Nigerian beverage, delights with its refreshing taste and numerous nutritional benefits.

Traditionally derived from grains like millet or sorghum, this lightly spiced and mildly sweet drink stands out as a perfect choice for cooling down on hot days or enhancing the flavour of meals. If you’ve ever wondered how to make kunu drink, the process is simple yet rewarding.

To make this beloved drink, you begin by soaking grains like millet or sorghum until they soften. Next, blend them with fresh ginger, cloves, and optionally, sweet potato or cooked rice to enhance the creaminess.

Strain the mixture to extract the liquid, cook it to achieve the ideal texture, and sweeten to taste.

Mastering how to make kunu drink at home allows you to tailor its flavours while enjoying a healthy and delicious treat.

Follow this guide to learn how to make kunu drink your way!

Ingredients for Making Kunu Drink

• 2 cups of millet (or sorghum)
• 1/4 cup of ginger (peeled and chopped)
• 1/4 cup of cloves (optional for added spice)
• 1 small sweet potato or 1 cup of cooked rice (optional for creaminess)
• Sugar or sweetener to taste
• Water

Equipment Needed

• Blender or food processor
• Fine sieve or cheesecloth
• Large bowl
• Storage bottles

How to Make Kunu Drink

1. Soak the Millet

• Wash the millet thoroughly to remove dirt and impurities.
• Soak the millet in water for 24 to 48 hours, changing the water every 12 hours to prevent fermentation.

2. Blend the Ingredients

• Drain the soaked millet and transfer it to a blender.
• Add ginger, cloves, and sweet potato (if using).
• Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients, then blend until smooth.

3. Strain the Mixture

• Pour the blended mixture through a fine sieve or cheesecloth into a large bowl, squeezing out as much liquid as possible.
• Discard the residue or save it for other recipes like livestock feed.

4. Cook the Mixture

• Transfer the strained liquid to a pot and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
• Once the mixture thickens slightly, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool completely.

5. Sweeten and Serve

• Add sugar or your preferred sweetener to taste, mixing thoroughly.
• Chill the kunu in the refrigerator or add ice cubes for immediate serving.

Tips for the Perfect Kunu Drink

1. Flavour Variations: You can experiment with additional spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for unique flavours.
2. Storage: Store the drink in airtight bottles in the refrigerator for up to five days. Shake well before serving.
3. Millet Alternatives: Substitute millet with sorghum, maize, or rice for variations of the drink.

Health and Nutritional Benefits of Kunu Drink

Its combination of natural ingredients provides essential nutrients that support overall well-being. Here are the key benefits of kunu drink:

1. Rich in Nutrients

Kunu is an excellent source of essential nutrients like vitamins B and E, magnesium, iron, and zinc, derived from grains like millet or sorghum. These nutrients are vital for energy production, healthy skin, and immune system support.

2. Aids Digestion

The ginger and cloves commonly added to kunu have natural digestive properties. They help relieve bloating, improve gut health, and stimulate the digestive enzymes, making the drink an effective remedy for mild indigestion.

3. Boosts Energy Levels

The carbohydrates in kunu provide a natural energy boost, making it an excellent option for staying energized throughout the day. It’s a great alternative to processed energy drinks.

4. Supports Heart Health

Millet and sorghum, the primary grains in kunu, contain compounds like magnesium and fiber that support cardiovascular health by helping to regulate blood pressure and reduce cholesterol levels.

5. Strengthens the Immune System

The spices in kunu, especially ginger, contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that help the body fight off infections and strengthen the immune system.

6. Hydrates the Body

Kunu is predominantly water-based, making it an excellent hydrating drink, especially in hot weather or after physical activities.

7. Lowers Risk of Diabetes

The low glycemic index of millet and sorghum helps regulate blood sugar levels, making kunu a beneficial drink for people looking to manage or prevent diabetes.

Enjoying a glass of kunu not only satisfies thirst but also supports overall health, making it a delightful and nourishing addition to your diet.

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Ancient African beauty practices were rooted in nature and culture, blending self-care with physical well-being. These timeless rituals passed through generations continue to inspire modern beauty techniques.

Here are five remarkable practices:

1. Shea Butter for Skin and Hair Care

Shea butter, extracted from the nuts of the shea tree, is a staple in West Africa, especially in Nigeria and Ghana. Rich in vitamins A and E, it deeply moisturises the skin, promotes healing, and protects against harsh weather.

Traditionally, it was also used on hair to enhance growth and provide nourishment. Its soothing properties made it a remedy for burns and skin conditions, showcasing its therapeutic significance.

2. African Black Soap: Nature’s Cleanser

African black soap, made from plantain skins, cocoa pods, and palm tree leaves, has been a cornerstone of skincare for centuries.

Originating in Nigeria and spreading across West Africa, this soap is celebrated for its ability to cleanse deeply, exfoliate, and treat skin issues like acne and eczema.

Its natural ingredients make it a gentle yet effective solution, emphasising the continent’s resourcefulness in creating sustainable beauty products.

3. Mud and Clay Masks for Detoxification

Mud and clay have been integral to African beauty routines, especially in North and East Africa. These natural elements were used for their detoxifying properties, helping to draw out impurities while rejuvenating the skin.

The minerals in these masks improved skin tone and offered a calming and meditative experience. In regions like Morocco, Ghassoul clay became famous for hair and skin treatments, adding shine and vitality.

4. Beads and Piercings as Adornments

Beads and piercings were more than decorative; they symbolised identity, status, and spirituality. Waist beads, ankle bracelets, and body piercings were used to signify tribal affiliations, beauty, and even fertility.

This practice, prominent across Africa, highlights the continent’s artistry and the cultural significance of body adornments.

5. Dry Brushing and Natural Oils

Dry brushing, practiced in ancient Egypt, was a technique for exfoliating the skin, improving circulation, and promoting a glowing complexion.

Similarly, oils like Kalahari melon seed oil in Southern Africa provided hydration and protection against harsh climates. These practices were holistic, blending skincare with overall wellness.

These ancient African beauty practices demonstrate the rich heritage of natural and sustainable self-care. By embracing earth-based ingredients and methods, Africans nurtured beauty that was as functional as it was symbolic.

These traditions continue to resonate today, inspiring global beauty trends and connecting modern practices to their ancestral roots.

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