With changing dietary choices, millets are an ancient goodness that offers a wealth of health benefits, especially during the colder months. They are filled with fiber, protein, antioxidants, and essential nutrients that help keep your body warm, energized, and nourished throughout winter. As temperatures drop, it’s important to adapt to winter foods, which will nourish your body by supporting digestion, boosting immunity, and providing lasting energy. Millets are perfect for this purpose, as they are naturally warm, filling, and versatile.
In this blog post, we will explore 10 winter millet recipes by using 5 different millets—Bajra (Pearl Millet), Ragi (Finger Millet), Jowar (Sorghum Millet), Kangni (Foxtail Millet), and Sava (Barnyard Millet). Each millet has unique health benefits, and we will share two comforting, hearty recipes for each that are easy to cook. Let’s dive into the world of millets and discover how you can use them to stay healthy, satisfied, and warm this winter.
1. Bajra (Pearl Millet) Recipes
Health Benefits of Organic Bajra:
Bajra, also known as Pearl Millet, is a rich source of nutrition, providing immense health benefits, especially during the winter months. This hardy grain is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent choice to nourish your body during the colder season.
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Rich in Fiber: Bajra is a great source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, prevents constipation, and promotes overall gut health.
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High in Iron: This grain is rich in iron, which is a major mineral and has properties that help in fighting weakness and increasing strength, which tends to decrease in the winter season.
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Heart-Healthy: The high fiber content in Bajra helps lower bad cholesterol (LDL), reduces the risk of heart disease, and improves cardiovascular health.
Bajra Khichdi (Pearl Millet Porridge)
Ingredients:
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1 cup Organic Bajra (Pearl Millet)
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½ cup yellow organic moong dal (split yellow lentils)
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1 tablespoon A2 Gir cow ghee
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1 onion, finely chopped
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1-inch piece of ginger, grated
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1 green chili, chopped
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1 tomato, chopped
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½ teaspoon turmeric powder
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½ teaspoon cumin seeds
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Himalayan Salt to taste
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Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
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Roast the Bajra: Dry roast Bajra in a pan for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
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Cook the dal: In a pressure cooker, add organic Bajra, moong dal, and 4 cups of water. Pressure cook for 3-4 whistles, or until the grains are soft and well-cooked.
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Prepare the tempering: Heat ghee in a pan and sauté the cumin seeds. Add grated ginger and chopped onions once the seeds splutter. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
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Add tomatoes and spices: Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, salt to taste. Cook until the tomatoes are done.
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Combine and cook: Add the cooked Bajra and dal mixture to the tempering. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
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Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with a dollop of A2 Gir cow ghee.
Best time to consume: Lunch or early dinner
Serving suggestions:
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Pair well with homemade pickles, fresh curd, or lightly sautéed winter vegetables
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Add a spoon of A2 Gir cow ghee on top for enhanced warmth and digestion
Bajra Roti (Pearl Millet Flatbread)
Ingredients:
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1 cup organic bajra ka atta
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½ teaspoon Himalayan pink salt
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½ teaspoon ajwain (carom seeds)
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Warm water, as needed
Instructions:
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Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine Bajra flour, salt, and ajwain. Gradually add warm water and knead into a smooth, soft dough.
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Rest the dough: Cover and let the dough rest for 15-20 minutes.
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Shape the roti: Divide the dough into small balls. Roll each ball into a flat, round disc using a rolling pin.
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Cook the roti: Heat a Tava (griddle) on medium heat. Place the rolled-out dough on the griddle and cook on each side for 1-2 minutes, pressing gently with a cloth or spatula.
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Serve: Add a spoonful of A2 Gir Cow Ghee. Serve Bajra Roti hot with yogurt, curry, or pickle.
Best time to consume: Lunch or dinner
Serving suggestions:
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Serve with seasonal vegetable sabzi, kadhi, or curd
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Enjoy with garlic chutney or sesame chutney for added warmth
2. Ragi (Finger Millet) Recipes
Ragi, also known as Finger Millet, is a highly nutritious grain often referred to as a "superfood." Ragi is very helpful during winter as it is warm in nature and is rich in calcium; making it perfect for maintaining bone strength and overall health.
Health Benefits of Organic Ragi:
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Promotes Strong Bones: Ragi is rich in plant calcium, which is essential for bone health, ideal for maintaining bone density and preventing osteoporosis, especially important as we age.
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Regulates Blood Sugar: With its low glycemic index, Ragi helps stabilize blood sugar levels, making it an excellent choice for people managing diabetes or those seeking to prevent blood sugar spikes.
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Supports Weight Loss: Ragi contains a lot of fiber, which helps in suppressing the appetite, reducing cravings, and inducing a sense of satiety, and hence it helps in weight loss.
Ragi Porridge (Nutritious Breakfast)
Ingredients:
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3 tablespoons Organic Finger Millet Flour
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1 cup water or milk
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1 teaspoon Organic jaggery powder or raw honey (optional)
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½ teaspoon cardamom powder
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A handful of chopped nuts (almonds, cashews)
Instructions:
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Mix the Ragi flour: In a small bowl, mix organic Ragi flour with a little water to form a smooth paste.
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Cook the porridge: In a saucepan, bring water or milk to a boil. Gradually add the Ragi paste, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
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Simmer: Reduce the heat and let the porridge cook for 5-7 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
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Sweeten and flavor: Stir in organic jaggery powder or forest honey and cardamom powder for sweetness and flavor.
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Serve: Top with chopped nuts and serve hot.
Best time to consume: Breakfast
Serving suggestions:
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Pair with soaked almonds or walnuts
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Can be enjoyed plain or with fruit toppings for added nutrition
If you want to know more about why you should consume millets during winter, read more here.
Ragi Laddus (Healthy Millet Balls)
Ingredients:
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1 cup organic ragi ka atta
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½ cup organic jaggery powder
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½ cup A2 Gir cow ghee
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¼ cup chopped nuts (cashews, almonds)
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¼ teaspoon cardamom powder
Instructions:
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Roast the Ragi flour: In a pan, dry roast Ragi flour over low heat until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma.
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Prepare the jaggery syrup: In a separate pan, melt jaggery with a little water to form a syrup.
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Combine the ingredients: Add the roasted Ragi flour, ghee, and chopped nuts to the jaggery syrup. Stir well to combine.
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Shape into laddus: Let the mixture cool slightly, then shape it into small balls (laddus).
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Serve: Let the laddus cool completely. Enjoy a wholesome snack or dessert.
Best time to consume: Mid-morning snack or evening snack
Serving suggestions:
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Enjoy with warm herbal tea or milk
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Ideal as a healthy sweet option post-meal
3. Jowar (Sorghum Millet) Recipes
Health Benefits of Organic Jowar:
Jowar, also known as Sorghum Millet, is a highly nutritious grain with numerous health benefits. Known for its versatility and ability to thrive in dry conditions, Jowar is perfect for winter meals.
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Supports Heart Health: Jowar is rich in fiber and antioxidants, which help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) levels, reducing the risk of heart disease and improving overall cardiovascular health.
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Aids Digestion: The high fiber content of Jowar promotes digestion and regular bowel movements, preventing constipation and supporting gut health.
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Regulates Blood Sugar: Jowar has a low glycemic index, making it an excellent food for regulating blood sugar levels, especially for individuals with diabetes or those managing insulin resistance.
Jowar Khichdi (Sorghum and Lentil Porridge)
Ingredients:
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1 cup Organic Jowar
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½ cup Organic Moong Dal Chilka (yellow lentils)
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1 tablespoon A2 Gir cow ghee
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1 onion, chopped
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1 tomato, chopped
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1 green chili, chopped
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½ teaspoon turmeric powder
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Himalayan Salt to taste
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Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
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Soak the Jowar: Soak Jowar for 2-3 hours to reduce cooking time.
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Cook the grains: In a pressure cooker, add soaked Jowar, moong dal, and 4 cups of water. Pressure cook for 3-4 whistles until soft.
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Prepare the tempering: In a separate pan, heat the pure ghee. Add onions, green chili, and sauté until golden brown.
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Add tomatoes and spices: Add tomatoes, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften.
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Combine and cook: Add the cooked Jowar and dal mixture into the tempering. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.
Best time to consume: Lunch
Serving suggestions:
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Serve with curd, lemon pickle, or lightly sautéed greens
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Works well as a wholesome one-pot meal
Jowar Roti (Sorghum Flatbread)
Ingredients:
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1 cup organic Jowar flour
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½ teaspoon Himalayan pink salt
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Warm water, as needed
Instructions:
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Make the dough: In a mixing bowl, combine Jowar flour and salt. Gradually add warm water, kneading into a soft dough.
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Rest the dough: Let the dough rest for 10-15 minutes.
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Shape the roti: Divide the dough into small balls and roll them out into flat discs.
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Cook the roti: Heat a tava (griddle) on medium heat. Place the rolled-out dough on the griddle and cook on each side for 1-2 minutes, pressing gently with a cloth or spatula.
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Serve: Serve Jowar Roti with vegetable curry or yogurt.
Best time to consume: Lunch or dinner
Serving suggestions:
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Pair with vegetable curry, dal, or curd
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Best enjoyed hot with a touch of A2 Gir cow ghee
4. Kangni (Foxtail Millet) Recipes
Kangni, also known as Foxtail Millet, is another excellent choice for winter meals. This millet is rich in protein, fiber, and essential minerals, making it a great option for maintaining energy levels and supporting overall health.
Health Benefits of Organic Kangni:
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Boosts Energy: Kangni is packed with slow-releasing carbohydrates that provide sustained energy throughout the day, perfect for staying active and alert during the winter.
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Supports Digestive Health: With high fiber content, Kangni aids digestion, preventing constipation and promoting regular bowel movements.
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Rich in Protein: Kangni is a good source of plant-based protein, making it a great option for vegetarians and vegans.
Kangni Porridge (Foxtail Millet Porridge)
Ingredients:
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1 cup Organic Kangni (Foxtail Millet)
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2 cups water or milk
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1 teaspoon organic gud or raw honey (optional)
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½ teaspoon cinnamon powder
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Chopped fruits or nuts for garnish
Instructions:
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Roast the Kangni: Dry roast the organic Kangni in a pan for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
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Cook the millet: In a saucepan, add water or milk and bring it to a boil. Add the roasted Foxtail millet and cook for about 15-20 minutes until soft and fully cooked.
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Sweeten and flavor: Stir in jaggery or honey for sweetness and cinnamon powder for warmth.
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Serve: Garnish with chopped fruits or nuts and serve hot.
Best time to consume: Breakfast
Serving suggestions:
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Pair with nuts or seasonal fruits
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Can be had plain or lightly sweetened
Kangni Upma (Foxtail Millet Stir-fry)
Ingredients:
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1 cup Organic Kangni (Foxtail Millet)
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1 tablespoon A2 Gir cow ghee
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1 onion, chopped
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1 carrot, grated
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1-2 green chilies, chopped
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1 teaspoon organic mustard seeds
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Himalayan pink Salt to taste
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Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
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Roast the Kangni: Dry roast the Kangni in a pan for 2-3 minutes.
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Prepare the tempering: In a separate pan, heat the ghee. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add chopped onions, carrots, and green chili. Sauté for 2-3 minutes.
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Cook the millet: Add the roasted Kangni to the pan along with 2 cups of water. Cook it for 10-12 minutes until the millet is soft and cooked.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.
Best time to consume: Breakfast or light lunch
Serving suggestions:
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Serve with coconut chutney or mint chutney
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Pair with a glass of buttermilk for balance
5. Sava (Barnyard Millet) Recipes
Health Benefits of Organic Sava (Barnyard Millet):
Sava, also known as Barnyard Millet, is one of the most fiber-rich millets and offers great health benefits during the winter season.
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Detoxifies the Body: Sava helps cleanse the digestive system by promoting healthy bowel movements and preventing bloating.
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Boosts Energy: This millet provides sustained energy, making it a great option for breakfast or midday meals.
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Supports Weight Loss: Sava is low in calories but high in fiber, helping control appetite and prevent overeating.
Sava Porridge (Barnyard Millet Porridge)
Ingredients:
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1 cup Organic Sava (Barnyard Millet)
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2 cups water or milk
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1 teaspoon organic jaggery or natural honey (optional)
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A pinch of cardamom powder
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Chopped nuts for garnish
Instructions:
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Cook the Sava: In a saucepan, add Sava and water (or milk). Bring to a boil and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Sweeten and flavor: Stir in jaggery or honey and cardamom powder for added sweetness and flavor.
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Serve: Garnish with chopped nuts and serve hot.
Best time to consume: Breakfast or early dinner
Serving suggestions:
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Enjoy with nuts or dried fruits
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Can be paired with warm milk
Sava Khichdi (Barnyard Millet Porridge)
Ingredients:
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1 cup Organic Sava (Barnyard Millet)
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½ cup organic moong dal (yellow lentils)
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1 tablespoon A2 Gir cow ghee
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1 onion, chopped
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1 tomato, chopped
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1 green chili, chopped
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½ teaspoon organic turmeric powder
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Himalayan Salt to taste
Instructions:
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Soak the Sava: Soak the Sava for about 30 minutes before cooking.
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Cook the grains: In a pressure cooker, add the soaked Sava, moong dal, and 3–4 cups of water. Pressure cook for 3–4 whistles.
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Prepare the tempering: In a separate pan, heat the ghee. Add the chopped onions and green chili, and sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
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Add tomatoes and spices: Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften.
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Combine and cook: Add the cooked Sava and dal mixture to the tempering. Stir well and cook for 2–3 minutes.
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Serve: Serve hot and enjoy this comforting meal.
Best time to consume: Lunch or dinner
Serving suggestions:
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Pair with curd, pickle, or steamed vegetables
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Suitable for light dinners during winter
Conclusion
Millets are a treasure trove of nutrients that can transform your winter meals into nourishing, heartwarming dishes. Whether you're enjoying Bajra Khichdi, savoring a warm bowl of Ragi Porridge, or munching on crispy Jowar Rotis, these ancient grains are the perfect addition to your winter diet. By incorporating different millets into your meals, you're not only boosting your health but also embracing food traditions that have stood the test of time. So, try these recipes and experience the warmth and comfort that millets can bring to your table this winter!