West Africa · Side
Pendi (Fluffy Steamed Fonio Grain)
Tender, nutty, and light double-steamed fonio grain tossed with rich clarified butter to accompany highland sauces and stews.
The story
Pendi represents the highest expression of cereal preparation in the Fouta Djallon highlands, where fonio has been harvested for over five millennia. Served as a delicate side dish for ceremonial feasts and comforting family meals alike, perfectly cooked pendi must be light, dry-grained, and distinct rather than sticky. Fonio grains are minuscule, requiring multiple rounds of washing and decanting to remove micro-sand before entering the steamer. The technique of double steaming with a mid-point aeration (aerating the grain with moist fingers) ensures each tiny grain swells to maximum fluffiness.
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