Tiger Nut Drink, also known as Kunnu Aya
In the heart of Nigeria, a unique drink known as Kunnu Aya is flavoured with alligator pepper, adding a spicy twist to the naturally sweet, creamy, and nutty taste of Tigernut Milk. This traditional Nigerian beverage, also known as Horchata de Chufa in Spain, is not only delicious but also packed with numerous health benefits.
Tigernuts, the primary ingredient in Kunnu Aya, are not nuts but tubers with a nut-like flavour and texture. They are a significant source of food in northwest Africa for both the poor and the wealthy, and their popularity is growing worldwide due to their rich nutritional profile.
The recipe for Kunnu Aya requires 8 ounces of tigernuts, 4 cups of water, 1 Ceylon cinnamon stick, 3 cardamom pods, and optional 1/4 cup of jaggery. Soaking the tigernuts in water for at least 12 hours before blending them into a smooth paste is the first step. The paste is then allowed to rest in the fridge for an hour before being pressed through a nut milk bag and served over ice.
Tigernuts are a good source of prebiotics like inulin and resistant starch, which are beneficial for gut bacteria. This makes Tigernut Milk an excellent alternative in baking and cooking for people who must avoid nuts. Unlike almond or other nut milks, tigernut milk is not high in inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids.
Tigernut milk is rich in monounsaturated fat, vitamins C and E, and minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus. These nutrients contribute to overall immune support, bone health, and metabolic functions. Tigernuts are traditionally used in folk medicine to treat upset stomachs, digestive issues, and irritable bowels.
The high dietary fiber content in tigernuts supports digestive health by promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. Tigernuts also provide a good amount of vitamins and minerals, including potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, zinc, copper, and vitamin C, which contribute to overall immune support, bone health, and metabolic functions.
Tiger nuts provide healthy fats, specifically polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce blood sugar levels and support cardiovascular health. Additionally, tiger nut products contain resistant starch, which may naturally boost energy levels and aid in maintaining stable blood sugar. Antioxidant properties found in tiger nut milk help combat oxidative stress, supporting skin health and immune defense.
In summary, the key health benefits of tiger nut milk and tiger nuts include:
- High dietary fiber for improved digestion and constipation relief.
- Rich in vitamins and minerals promoting immune health and metabolic support.
- Contains healthy fats that help regulate blood sugar and support heart health.
- Provides resistant starch boosting energy and aiding blood sugar control.
- Antioxidant effects that support skin health and reduce oxidative damage.
These qualities make tiger nuts and their milk a nutritious addition to a balanced diet. Tigernuts are also a good source of oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat also found in olive oil, avocado, and pork fat, which is associated with increased HDL (good) cholesterol levels.
So, whether you're looking for a refreshing and nutritious drink or a versatile ingredient for your cooking, give Tigernut Milk a try. Your taste buds and your health will thank you!
- Integrating Tigernut Milk into global-cuisines offers a healthy-cooking alternative, especially for those who must avoid nuts due to allergies or dietary restrictions.
- The unique blend of health-and-wellness benefits and delicious taste found in Tigernut Milk makes it an excellent addition to any health-focused lifestyle, food-and-drink regimen, or nutritional approach to life.
- Embracing the nutritional values of Tigernuts through cooking and consumption of the traditional Kunnu Aya beverage, or other Tigernut recipes, can contribute to a balanced global-cuisines experience that fosters nutritional well-being and promotes good health.
- By incorporating the numerous health benefits of Tigernut Milk, such as its rich nutritional profile and high dietary fiber content, into your science-based understanding of health and nutrition, you can make informed decisions for a healthier lifestyle that prioritizes overall well-being and wellness.
