Tiger Nut Drink - Nigerian Recipe
Tiger nut drink, also known as "Kunu aya," is a popular and nutritious beverage in Nigeria made from tiger nuts (also called earth almonds or chufa). This drink is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits, including being rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Here’s a simple recipe to make your own tiger nut drink at home.
Ingredients
- 1 cup tiger nuts (dried)
- 4 cups water (for soaking)
- 4 cups water (for blending)
- 1-2 tablespoons sugar or honey (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- A pinch of salt
- Spices (optional, such as cinnamon or nutmeg)
Instructions
Soak the Tiger Nuts:
- Rinse the tiger nuts thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Place the cleaned tiger nuts in a bowl and cover them with 4 cups of water. Allow them to soak for at least 12 hours or overnight. This softens the nuts and makes them easier to blend.
Blend the Tiger Nuts:
- After soaking, drain the tiger nuts and rinse them again.
- In a blender, combine the soaked tiger nuts with 4 cups of fresh water. Blend until smooth and creamy. You may need to do this in batches if your blender is small.
Strain the Mixture:
- Using a fine mesh strainer, cheesecloth, or a nut milk bag, strain the blended mixture into a large bowl or pitcher. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible to extract all the milk from the tiger nuts. The remaining pulp can be discarded or used in other recipes.
Sweeten and Flavor:
- Add sugar or honey to the strained liquid to taste. You can also add vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and any spices you like (such as cinnamon or nutmeg) for extra flavor. Stir well to combine.
Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the tiger nut drink for a few hours to chill. Serve it cold over ice, and enjoy!
- Storage: The tiger nut drink can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Shake well before serving, as it may separate over time.
- Variations: You can experiment with flavors by adding fruits like bananas or dates during the blending process for a sweeter, fruitier drink.
- Nutritional Boost: For added nutrition, consider blending in some spinach or kale for a green version of the drink.
Enjoy your refreshing and nutritious tiger nut drink!