Mongongo

Schinziophyton rautanenii

nuts & seeds

Oily, protein-rich nuts, roasted, a staple food of the San for months of the year.

Origin

Kalahari (Namibia, Botswana)

Where to find it

In the dune forests of northeastern Namibia and northwestern Botswana; its oil is now found in cosmetics.

Season (United States)

March to May

Preparation

The dried fruit is first boiled to loosen the flesh, which is eaten; the stone is then roasted and cracked to get the kernel.

Molecules

In small amounts, not counted Magnesium · Insoluble fibers · Protein

Did you know?

The San gathered so many that researchers wondered why they would farm anything at all.