How to Prepare Tiger Nut Drink in Nigeria

Tiger nut drink, popularly known as kunu aya, is a highly nutritious and delicious drink that is enjoyed by many Nigerians. It is made from tiger nuts, a small tuber that is rich in nutrients such as fiber, carbohydrates, and vitamins. Tiger nuts are readily available in Nigeria, and the drink is easy to prepare. In this article, we will take you through a step-by-step process of how to prepare tiger nut drink in Nigeria.

What are Tiger Nuts?

Tiger nuts are small tubers that grow mostly in Africa and Asia. They are also known as yellow nutsedge or chufa nuts. Tiger nuts are highly nutritious and contain a lot of vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health. They are a good source of fiber, carbohydrates, and natural sugars. Tiger nuts are gluten-free and have a low glycemic index, making them ideal for people with diabetes.

Ingredients Needed

The following are the ingredients needed to prepare tiger nut drink:

• 2 cups of tiger nuts
• 4 cups of water
• 1 cup of coconut milk
• Sweetener (sugar or honey)
• Spices (ginger, cinnamon, or nutmeg)

Preparation Steps

Follow these simple steps to prepare tiger nut drink:

1. Soak the tiger nuts in water for 24 hours. This will soften them and make them easier to blend.
2. After soaking, drain the water and rinse the tiger nuts thoroughly.
3. Add the soaked tiger nuts and 2 cups of water into a blender. Blend until smooth.
4. Strain the blended mixture using a sieve or cheesecloth. Squeeze out all the milk from the tiger nuts.
5. Add the remaining 2 cups of water, coconut milk, sweetener, and spices (optional) to the tiger nut milk. Stir well.
6. Serve chilled in a glass.

Health Benefits of Tiger Nut Drink

Tiger nut drink is highly nutritious and offers several health benefits. Here are some of them:

1. Good for the heart: Tiger nuts contain healthy fats that help lower cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease.
2. Good for digestion: Tiger nuts are rich in fiber, which helps improve digestion and prevent constipation.
3. Good for the immune system: Tiger nuts contain vitamins C and E, which are essential for a healthy immune system.
4. Good for the skin: Tiger nuts contain vitamin E, which is essential for healthy skin.

FAQs

1. Can I use almond milk instead of coconut milk to prepare tiger nut drink?
   Yes, you can use almond milk as a substitute for coconut milk.

2. Can I add other fruits to the tiger nut drink?
   Yes, you can add fruits such as bananas or strawberries to the tiger nut drink for added flavor.

3. Can I store tiger nut drink in the refrigerator?
   Yes, tiger nut drink can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

4. Can I use a food processor instead of a blender to prepare tiger nut drink?
   Yes, you can use a food processor instead of a blender to prepare tiger nut drink.

5. Is tiger nut drink suitable for people with diabetes?
   Yes, tiger nut drink is suitable for people with diabetes as it has a low glycemic index.

Conclusion

Tiger nut drink is a highly nutritious and delicious drink that is easy to prepare. It offers several health benefits, including improving digestion, boosting the immune system, and promoting healthy skin. Follow the simple steps outlined in this article to prepare your own tiger nut drink at home. Enjoy!