The Seed of the Universe

Move over quinoa. There’s a “new” ancient grain in town—fonio, a hearty, gluten-free species from West Africa introduced to America by Yolélé Foods.

- NEIL ZEVNIK

For all you fans of quinoa out there (and those who have yet to enjoy it), I have a special treat to propose— fonio, the most excellent ancient grain that you’ve probably never heard of. And it comes with a special bonus: in addition to being delicious and gluten-free, it provides societal and environmental benefits in a part of the world that’s desperately in need of them.

did you know ... “Yolélé” basically means “Let’s Party!” in Fulani, a local language in Senegal