Fonio & Lentil Bake

Fonio is a new (old) superfood with delicious flexibility!

I recently received a sample of an African grain called Fonio from Earth's Goodness.  I love to cook and I love to try new things, so I was curious to try it! This ancient grain boasts some great health benefits and is easy to cook. It's rich in calcium, magnesium, zinc, manganese, and amino acids. Fonio is also gluten free, easily digestible, and diabetic friendly. A nutrient dense, flexible grain is a win in my book.

Earth's Goodness Fonio

My family loved this recipe! It was admittedly hard to photograph, but trust me on this one - it was really delicious! It had a creamy texture with the contrast of the lentils. The parmesan really elevated it. It reminded me a bit of polenta. It's creamier than couscous - more like a hot cereal.

Fonio & Lentil Bake makes a great main dish or side dish!

FONIO & LENTIL BAKE

6 c. vegetable or chicken broth
1 1/2 c. fonio (rinsed)
1 c. lentils (I used red)
1 onion, diced
2 tsp. Itlaian seasoning
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. pepper
Fresh parmesan

Pre-heat oven to 325 degrees F. Stir all of the ingredients together and put in a 9x13 pan covered with foil or in a covered oven-proof pot. Bake for 50-60 minutes until creamy, but lentils still have some texture. Uncover and grate fresh parmesan over top and bake for another 10 minutes. Serve with more parmesan.

I think this would be fantastic with a pork chop or steak and a side of broccoli or brussel sprouts. It was creamy, flavorful, and filling. It cooked quickly and took on the flavor of the seasonings. Delicious! I'm really looking forward to trying more recipes with fonio. I'm planning to try it as a hot cereal next - perhaps topped with apples and cinnamon! Earth's Goodness has some delicious recipe suggestions!

Where can you buy Fonio? Check out Earth's Goodness!


**DISCLAIMER: These opinions are my own. I did receive a sample and compensation in exchange for my honest review of this grain.