Baking with sorghum: 5 delicious ideas
What's the story
Sorghum is a versatile and nutritious grain that is extensively used in African cuisine. Known for its drought-resistant properties, sorghum is a staple in most regions.
It can be used to create a variety of delicious and culturally significant baked goods.
Here, we look at five popular African baked goods made using sorghum, and what makes them unique and a part of local diets.
Bread insight
Sorghum bread delight
Sorghum bread is a staple across several African countries.
Prepared by mixing sorghum flour with other grains/flours, it provides a dense texture and earthy flavor.
This bread can be relished with stews or soups and forms an important part of daily meals.
Its high fiber content makes it a healthy option for those wanting to add more whole grains into their diet.
Muffin magic
Sweet sorghum muffins
Sweet sorghum muffins are a delicious treat from different parts of Africa.
These muffins are generally prepared by mixing sorghum flour with sweeteners like honey or sugar and spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.
The outcome is a moist and delicious muffin that can be eaten as breakfast or dessert.
Flatbread focus
Traditional sorghum flatbread
Traditional sorghum flatbread, a staple in many African cuisines, is prepared from this resilient grain.
Flatbreads are usually cooked over open flames or hot griddles, giving them a slightly chewy texture and a mild, pleasing taste.
Perfect for scooping up sauces or dips, they are often served with main dishes during meals, elevating the dining experience with their simplicity and versatility.
Biscuit basics
Savory sorghum biscuits
Savory sorghum biscuits are a great alternative to sweet treats.
Simply mix herbs and spices into the dough before baking them to golden brown perfection in ovens across Africa's diverse culinary landscape.
These biscuits go well with tea time snacks while also providing nutritional benefits owing to their high fiber content from wholesome ingredients like whole-grain flours blended seamlessly together within each bite-sized piece.
Cookie craze
Nutty sorghum cookies
Nutty sorghum cookies combine the delicious flavors of nuts like peanuts or almonds, mixed perfectly into cookie dough made mainly out of nutrient-dense, whole-grain flours obtained directly from locally grown crops across Africa's sprawling farmlands.
Relish these crunchy delights anytime you're looking for something filling, yet healthy enough to not just please your palate, but nourish your body too.