Gnamakoudji – Mandinka for Summer Ginger Punch

Posted by Raissa Nebie on May 15, 2009 | No Comments

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Here’s a refreshing summer drink I made with all the ginger left over from my project. It’s called Gnamakoudji and pronounced “ni-ya-ma-koo-ji”. Gnamakoudji is a popular thirst quencher in west Africa, where the tropical climate is hot year round. Gnamakou means ginger in Mandinka and dji means water. So together, ginger water. It’s essentially a mint and lemon flavored ginger iced tea with a bold kick.

Ingredients

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1.5-2 cups of freshly grated ginger
1.5 liters of water
4 limes or lemons juiced
1 bunch of mint
Orange blossom water
Brown sugar to taste

Place the grated ginger in a pot with 1.5 to 2 liters of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 12 minutes. Turn off the heat and add the mint. Let the ginger and mint steep until the liquid cools down completely.

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Once the liquid is cool, strain it into a pitcher. Add the sugar starting with a cup and gradually increasing the quantity until you reach your desired level of sweetness. Add the lime/lemon juice and finish with 3 caps of orange blossom water. This adds a wonderful fragrance to the beverage. Serve ice cold on a hot summer day.

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Thrifty Tip: Instantly turn your gnamakoudji into a delicious ginger margarita by adding some tequila. A perfect complement to your summer barbecue. Drink responsibly!