Nigerian society, like other cultures, has a social culture that includes drinking and dining. Drinks are an important part of these chit-chat sessions. These beverages could be manufactured or freshly brewed and sourced from the environment.
If you are not a big drinker and prefer more natural drinks, here are some local brews and drinks to try while in Nigeria.
Palm Wine
The palm wine drink should be on your list of things to try. Palm wine has helped to shape Nigerian society while also contributing to joyful communication. Palm wines are tapped from palm trees and do not require human intervention to make. Palm wine is white in color and high in yeast, which is beneficial to the eyes. It is best enjoyed fresh because it becomes alcoholic after intense fermentation.
Burukutu
Because of the alcohol content from fermentation, this is typically consumed by the elderly. It is made from sorghum and can be mixed with other grains. Boiling is also involved in the fermentation of sorghum. The distillation process is extensive and worth your taste buds because you can purchase it from a vendor rather than making it yourself.
Fura da Nono
Another drink known as fura da nono hails from Northern Nigeria. This nourishing beverage is made with millet, fura, and fermented cow milk (nono). Fura da nono has a consistency similar to yoghurt but can be lumpy due to the fermentation process. Before adding the milk, the millet is ground and heated on low heat. To enhance the flavor, additional ingredients such as ginger and pepper can be added.
Zobo
In many Nigerian households, this red-popping drink has withstood the test of time. Zobo is a non-alcoholic beverage made from the hibiscus flowers of the roselle plant. The deep red color is derived from the flowers. It can be made in a variety of ways, including with ginger, garlic, fresh-cut sweet fruits, or regular sweeteners. According to studies, the hibiscus leaves used to make this refreshing drink lower blood pressure. You can’t go wrong with the refreshing Zobo drink when served with a sumptuous meal.
Adoyo
Pineapple and paprika are the primary sources of adoyo (made from corn). Adoyo, which is pap combined with pineapple, improves the sour taste that pap naturally has.
Kuno
Another drink to try is this rich, creamy, and nutrient-dense concoction. Kunu is a drink popular among Nigeria’s northerners that is made with cereals such as millet, coconut, dates, groundnut, and ginger for added flavor. This drink comes in three varieties: kunu aya, kunu zaki, and kunu gyada. The high nutrient content lowers the risk of diabetes and cholesterol levels, while the fiber content promotes proper digestive function.
