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Umbila (sorghum fermented drink): recipe illustration
Appetizers & nibbles

Umbila (sorghum fermented drink)

Umbila is a traditional fermented drink made from sorghum malt, slightly alcoholic and cloudy. It is prepared for gatherings and is often shared with family or neighbours.

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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Soak the sorghum malt in 1 L of lukewarm water for 2 hours, then strain the liquid.
  2. Bring the rest of the water to a boil, pour it over the sorghum flour and mix until you get a thick porridge. Let it cool.
  3. Mix the malt liquid with the cooled porridge, then add the sugar.
  4. Stir in the yeast dissolved in a little lukewarm water and cover the container with a clean cloth.
  5. Let it ferment at room temperature for 2 to 3 days, until bubbles appear and the smell turns winey.
  6. Strain the drink and serve it well chilled.

Variations and tips

Lightly fermented version. Let it ferment for only 24 hours for a milder, less alcoholic drink.

With what you can find here. Replace the sorghum malt with malted barley, which is easier to find in homebrewing shops.

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Original Ecomely recipe.