Passion For Pearl Millets
What are Millets?
Millets are small-seeded grains grown worldwide. They are known for their nutritional value and resilience in challenging conditions. They are used to make various foods like flatbreads and porridge and are gluten-free, making them a healthy and sustainable food source.
Types of Millets
There are several types of millets including:
- Pearl Millet: Bajra
- Finger Millet: Ragi
- Foxtail Millet: Kangni
- Proso Millet: Cheena
- Little Millet: Kutki
- Kodo Millet: Kodra
- Barnyard Millet: Jhangora
These millet varieties are grown and used for various culinary purposes in different parts of the world.
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What is Pearl millet?
Pearl millet, known as “bajra” in Hindi, is a nutritious, drought-tolerant cereal grain commonly used to make flatbreads and porridge in India and other regions. It is rich in nutrients and plays a vital role in food security, particularly in arid areas.
Features & health benefits of Millets
Millets offer health benefits such as being gluten-free, rich in fiber, and packed with essential nutrients. They support digestion, heart health, weight management, and have antioxidant properties, making them a valuable addition to a balanced diet. Additionally, millets are sustainable and require less water to grow.
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How are millets useful in daily cooking?
Millets are versatile in daily cooking. They can be used to make flatbreads, porridge, rice substitutes, salads, soups, and even baked goods. They add nutrition, texture, and variety to your meals.
How have millets been used in Indian cuisine over the years?
Millets have been used in Indian cuisine for centuries. Millets have been a staple food in India, but their popularity declined. They are now making a comeback due to their nutritional value and environmental benefits. Millets are used in various dishes, including flatbreads, porridge, snacks, sweets, and fermented foods.
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5 easy Recipes using Pearl millets (step by step)
Here are five easy recipes using pearl millets (bajra) with step-by-step instructions:
RECIPE – 1] Bajra Roti (Pearl Millet Flatbread)
RECIPE – 2] Bajra Khichdi (Pearl Millet Porridge)
RECIPE – 3] Bajra Upma (Pearl Millet Breakfast Dish)
RECIPE – 4] Bajra Kheer (Pearl Millet Pudding)
RECIPE – 5] Bajra Snacks (Pearl Millet Crisps)
Conclusion
As a collection of small-seeded grains, millets have historically been a staple meal in many countries across the world, including India. They are renowned for their high nutritional content, flexibility in the kitchen, and agricultural sustainability. Because of its advantages for the environment and human health, millets have become more popular recently. Your everyday meals may become more varied and nutritious by using these recipes. Millets are a beneficial complement to a balanced diet since they are free of gluten, high in fibre, and packed with vital minerals.
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About the author
Dr. Kaviraj Khialani, celebrity master chef is a Mumbai based food and hospitality consultant. He is specialised in over 33 plus international cuisines & is a two times national award winner for his excellence in his field of expertise. Chef Kaviraj has worked with some of the reputed hotel chains & airline companies in India & Overseas. He is a renowned academician, food designer & author- writer on food and culinary features, besides having been featured on Colors Television & Star plus he loves trying global fusion cooking promoting Indian food on an international platter for the diaspora.
