West Africa · Drink
Wonjo (Spiced Hibiscus Calyx Iced Infusion)
A deep ruby, tart and fragrant Gambian iced infusion steeped with dried hibiscus calyces, fresh mint, crushed ginger, and aromatic essences.
The story
Across The Gambia, from bustling Banjul markets to rural Kombo compounds, Wonjo is the quintessential thirst-quencher served ice-cold at ceremonies, naming rites, and during Ramadan iftar. Prepared predominantly by Wolof and Mandinka women, it transforms sun-dried roselle calyces (Hibiscus sabdariffa) into a vibrant, vitamin C-rich nectar. A subtle technical nuance lies in brief boiling followed by extended off-heat steeping; excessive rolling boils draw harsh, astringent tannins from the dried calyces rather than clean, bright acidity.
Unlock the full recipe
Members get every recipe from all 54 nations, the AI Chef, hands-free Voice Chef and their own cookbook. Seven days free, then £4.99 a month. Cancel any time.
Cook this next
Kinkeliba (Herbal Bush Leaf Tea Infusion)
An earthy, amber Gambian wellness tea brewed from dried Combretum micranthum bush leaves, infused with fresh mint and spicy ginger.
Nanmburang (Sweetened Creamy Baobab Fruit Nectar)
A velvety, pale-tan traditional Gambian emulsion made from nutrient-dense wild baobab fruit pulp, sweetened milk, and aromatic spices.
Akara (Crispy Deep-Fried Black-Eyed Pea Fritters)
Crisp golden West African black-eyed pea fritters with a fluffy soufflé-like interior, spiced with scotch bonnet and onion.
Benachin (One-Pot Spiced Rice with Fish and Vegetables)
A rich coastal Wolof classic of fragrant broken rice cooked in a deep tomato-fish broth with stuffed white fish and root vegetables.