Ghanaian Rice Water Recipe

Rice Water is a traditional Ghanaian porridge made from water and fermented rice with sweeteners and spices. It is also known as Akamu or Ogi in different parts of Ghana.

The flavor of the dish varies depending on the spices and sweeteners added, but it is always served cold and considered to be very nutritious.  

Origin and Cultural Significance

Rice water has been a staple in many West African countries for generations, particularly in Ghana and Nigeria. It is made by fermenting rice or other grains, and adding a variety of different spices to flavor it.

It contains probiotics and aids digestion and is often given to people suffering from stomach upset as well as other ailments. 

The dish is often eaten at breakfast or lunch, or by children, the elderly, or those who are sick. The meal is extremely nutritious, cheap, and easy to make, and is thought to help with a number of different health issues. 

The household staple is something all Ghanaians will have grown up eating, a traditional comfort food that is enjoyed when they are sick, sad, or cold. 

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Ghanaian Rice Water Recipe

Yield: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Additional Time: 4 hours

Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes

Ghanan Rice Water is a traditional porridge made from water and fermented rice with sweeteners and spices.

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Ingredients

• White rice - 1 cup
• Water - 4 cups
• Sugar or honey (optional) - to taste
• Ground nutmeg or cinnamon (optional) - 1/2 tsp

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch.
2. In a large bowl, soak the rice in 2 cups of water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Drain the rice and blend it with 2 cups of fresh water until smooth.
4. Pour the rice mixture through a fine sieve or cheesecloth into a pot, discarding any solids.
5. Bring the liquid to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Allow the rice water to cool, then refrigerate until chilled.
7. Sweeten with sugar or honey and add a pinch of ground nutmeg or cinnamon if desired before serving.

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 76Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 10mgCarbohydrates: 17gFiber: 1gSugar: 5gProtein: 1g

Nutrition is provided and calculated by Nutritionix. It is for general information purposes and is only a rough estimation.