Fonio Porridge

Preparation

1. Rinse the fonio grains thoroughly under cold running water in a fine-mesh strainer, rubbing gently with your fingers to remove dust and debris until the water runs clear. Place the rinsed fonio in a large pot.
2. Add 3 cups of water to the pot with the fonio and bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer covered for 10-12 minutes until the water is absorbed and the fonio grains are tender and slightly fluffy.
3. Add the milk, sugar, salt, butter if using, vanilla extract, and cinnamon if using, stirring well to combine. Continue cooking over low heat for 5-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until the porridge thickens and becomes creamy. The porridge should coat a spoon when lifted from the pot.
4. Serve the fonio porridge hot in bowls as a warm breakfast porridge or sweet dish. The texture should be creamy and thick, similar to oatmeal but slightly thinner, with individual fonio grains still visible.