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Oshikundu

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description Oshikundu Overview

Oshikundu is a traditional, lightly fermented beverage and thin porridge originating from the Owambo people of northern Namibia. It is prepared by combining pearl millet flour with water and allowing the mixture to undergo natural fermentation, often with the addition of sorghum. This fermentation process produces a slightly sour, probiotic-rich liquid that is highly valued for its refreshing properties in the hot climate. It is consumed daily as a hydrating drink or a light meal across the region.

help Oshikundu FAQ

What is oshikundu made from?

Oshikundu is made from pearl millet meal or flour, water, and commonly sorghum or pearl-millet malt. It is a traditional Owambo beverage and thin porridge from northern Namibia. [University of Namibia](https://repository.unam.edu.na/items/cb397bb8-eb40-4889-a526-180e93b71578)

Is oshikundu fermented or just millet porridge?

It is both a drink and a thin porridge, but fermentation gives the traditional beverage its lightly acidic character. Fresh oshikundu is usually non-alcoholic, while the mixture changes as it continues to ferment. [University of Namibia](https://repository.unam.edu.na/items/cb397bb8-eb40-4889-a526-180e93b71578)

Does oshikundu contain alcohol?

Freshly prepared oshikundu is described as non-alcoholic, but research reports that it can reach up to about 1.6 percent alcohol as fermentation continues. That makes it a very low-alcohol traditional drink rather than a fixed-strength beverage. [University of Namibia](https://repository.unam.edu.na/items/cb397bb8-eb40-4889-a526-180e93b71578)

Why is oshikundu usually consumed quickly?

The beverage has a short shelf life, usually less than a day at room temperature. Its brewing methods are not fully standardized, so taste, thickness, and alcohol level can change from one preparation to another. [University of Namibia](https://repository.unam.edu.na/items/cb397bb8-eb40-4889-a526-180e93b71578)

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