Millets have been used by mankind since ancient times. Rather, the history of the evolution of humans indicates that millets were the earliest or even the first cereal grains consumed by human beings.
Residents of East Asia have been cultivating millets for more than 10,000 years.
It is a drought-resistant grain used since prehistoric times and was even more widely eaten than rice in the Korean peninsula and China.
Today millets are nothing short of a wonder food with rich protein structure almost similar to wheat.
For those who suffer from gluten intolerance, millet powders can be a great substitute for making bread and pancakes.
Millets are also rich in calcium, iron, phosphorous and when mixed with grains enhance the nutritional value of any dish.
Pearl millet or bajra is popularly used in Indian cuisines.
It offers various health benefits as it is rich in fiber, protein, iron, and different minerals like magnesium and calcium. Regular inclusion of bajra can do wonders to your health.
Sorghum or Jowar is a traditional grain used for making rotis or flatbreads in India.
It is rich in protein, fiber, and iron. Jowar is also known for reducing cholesterol level as it contains component policosanols.
Sorghum is also a good option for people with wheat intolerance.
Ragi or Finger Millet is a health benefitting substitute for wheat and rice.
It is called a powerhouse of nutrition because Finger Millet is rich in amino acids and protein.
Ragi is also recommended for kids because it contributes to the development of the brain during growth years.
It is also free from gluten and is a good option for people with gluten intolerance.
Little millet is popularly used in many traditional dishes of South India.
It is loaded with the goodness of minerals like iron, zinc, calcium, potassium, and B-vitamins. Little millet is ideal for those aiming for weight loss as it provides essential nutrients but low calories.
It is also high in fiber content and is a healthier option for rice.
Foxtail millet is easily available in the form of rice flour and semolina.
It has a healthy balance of carbohydrates and is rich in calcium and iron.
It is also a good option for strengthening immunity.
Millets are quite versatile and you can add them in powdered form to any cuisine and add a new twist.
Addition of millets to any dish enhances its nutritional level.
It also makes you feel satiated early so you end up eating less and lose weight.
You can use millets to prepare idlis, upma, dosas, khichdi, biryani, pulav, kheer, and payasam.
You can use rice or wheat flour to make rotis or bread. While using millets you must keep in mind that they will take more water than rice for soaking.
You can also toast the millets before using them for adding that nutty flavor to the salads or any other dish. Since they are loaded with nutrition, you should not eat them alone.
Their nutritional levels are well balanced when used in combination with wheat, rice or lentils.
In the same way, you can prepare dosas from foxtail millet and other different types of millets and enjoy highly nutritious dosas and idlis with coconut or pudina chutneys.
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Dolpine Sally
1 year agoDolpine Sally
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