Drinks
Zoom-koom (Ginger Millet Drink)
Ingredients
- - 100 g (2/3 cup) millet flour
- - 1.5 litres (6 cups) water, divided
- - 50 g (2 oz) fresh ginger, peeled and roughly chopped
- - 80 g (1/3 cup) sugar, or to taste
- - 1 tbsp lemon juice
- - 1 pinch salt
Method
- Blend the ginger with 250 ml of the water until smooth, then strain through a fine sieve or muslin cloth, reserving the ginger-infused water and discarding the solids.
- Bring 500 ml of the remaining water to a boil in a saucepan.
- Whisk the millet flour with 250 ml cold water to form a smooth slurry, then pour into the boiling water, whisking constantly.
- Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring, until it thickens slightly and turns opaque, then remove from the heat and cool completely.
- Once cool, whisk in the ginger-infused water, remaining water, sugar, lemon juice, and salt until well combined.
- Strain the mixture once more through a fine sieve for a smooth finish, then chill thoroughly before serving over ice.
Introduction: Zoom-koom, meaning 'white water' in the Mooré language, is a refreshing, slightly tangy drink made from millet flour and fresh ginger, sold in bags and bottles by street vendors across Burkina Faso, especially in the searing heat of the dry season.
Cultural Background: Zoom-koom, meaning 'white water' in the Mooré language, is a refreshing, slightly tangy drink made from millet flour and fresh ginger, sold in bags and bottles by street vendors across Burkina Faso, especially in the searing heat of the dry season. It is deeply woven into daily life, offering an affordable, cooling refreshment.
Tips: Straining twice gives the drink its signature smooth, milky consistency without any grainy texture. Adjust the ginger quantity to taste; Burkinabe versions are often served quite gingery and refreshing.
Variations: Add a splash of tamarind juice for extra tang. Sweeten with honey instead of sugar for a different depth of flavour. Naturally vegan as written.
Storage: Refrigerate in a covered jug for up to 3 days; stir well before serving as it may separate slightly.
Reheating: This drink is served cold and does not require reheating.
Nutrition: Approx. 90 kcal, 1 g protein, 21 g carbohydrate, 0 g fat per glass (based on 6 glasses).
FAQs:
Q: Why is my zoom-koom grainy?
A: Straining the millet mixture thoroughly through a fine sieve or muslin cloth removes any remaining grittiness.
Q: Is zoom-koom very spicy from the ginger?
A: It has a pleasant, warming ginger kick rather than intense heat; reduce the ginger quantity if you prefer a milder drink.