Fonio and Black Sesame Seed Medley

This nutty and wholesome dish brings together the delicate texture of fonio with the rich crunch of black sesame seeds. It’s a simple, nutritious recipe perfect for adding a unique twist to your mealtime.

Start cooking ↓

TIME23 min

SERVINGS4

RATING5.0 / 5

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

¼ teaspoon vegetable oil 2 tablespoons black sesame seeds 1 ½ cups water ½ cup fonio

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

Start by warming some oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Toss in the sesame seeds and let them toast gently until they smell nutty and golden, which usually takes about 6 minutes. Meanwhile, bring a pot of water to a boil. Once the seeds are toasted, add them to the boiling water along with the fonio and a pinch of salt. Let everything come back to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook until the water has mostly absorbed, about 5 minutes. When it’s done, fluff the fonio with a fork to separate the grains and keep it light and airy.

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Rinse fonio thoroughly before cooking to remove any dust.
- Use a 2:1 water-to-fonio ratio for fluffy, separate grains.
- Toast black sesame seeds lightly to enhance their flavor before mixing.

Why you’ll love it

This dish combines the nutty flavor of fonio with the rich crunch of black sesame seeds. It’s gluten-free, high in fiber, and packed with essential minerals. The unique texture and taste make it a refreshing change from typical grains.

Serving ideas

Enjoy this medley as a warm side dish or a light main course. It pairs well with grilled vegetables, roasted meats, or fresh salads. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil can brighten the flavors.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water to maintain moisture. For longer storage, freeze in portions and thaw before reheating.