Tigernut drink, also known as “Kunu Aya” or “Chufa” in some regions, is a popular and refreshing beverage made from tigernuts (also known as chufas or earth almonds). In Nigeria, the Hausas call it “Aya”, Yorubas “imumu”, the igbos “ofio”, “aki Hausa” in southern Nigeria. It’s enjoyed for its slightly sweet and nutty flavor, and it’s also packed with nutrients. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make tigernut drink:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried tigernuts
- 4 cups water (plus extra for soaking)
- 1/4 cup sweetener (such as honey, sugar, or agave syrup; adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup coconut milk (optional, for creaminess)
Instructions:
- Soak the Tigernuts:
- Rinse the dried tigernuts under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Place them in a large bowl and cover with plenty of water.
- Soak the tigernuts for at least 8 hours or overnight. This softens them and makes them easier to blend.
- Drain and Rinse:
- After soaking, drain and rinse the tigernuts under cold water.
- Blend the Tigernuts:
- In a blender, combine the soaked tigernuts and 4 cups of fresh water.
- Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This may take a few minutes. You might need to blend in batches depending on the size of your blender.
- Strain the Mixture:
- Place a nut milk bag, fine-mesh strainer, or cheesecloth over a large bowl or jug.
- Pour the blended tigernut mixture through the strainer to separate the liquid from the pulp. Use a spoon or spatula to press down and extract as much liquid as possible.
- Sweeten and Flavor:
- Pour the strained liquid back into the blender.
- Add your choice of sweetener (adjust to taste), vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and coconut milk if using.
- Blend briefly to combine the ingredients.
- Serve:
- Chill the tigernut drink in the refrigerator before serving, or serve it over ice.
- Stir well before serving, as the drink may separate over time.
- Store:
- Store any leftover drink in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should keep for about 3-4 days.
Tips:
- Sweetener: Adjust the amount of sweetener to your taste preference. You can also use natural sweeteners like dates or maple syrup.
- Creaminess: Adding coconut milk or another plant-based milk can make the drink creamier.
- Spices: Experiment with other spices like nutmeg or cardamom if you like.
Enjoy your refreshing and nutritious tigernut drink!
