The G20 Summit 2023, an event that brings together some of the most powerful people on earth, provides a forum for discussion of world issues as well as a chance to promote the culture and cuisine of the host nation. In 2023, the G20 Summit is being hosted in New Delhi, India. Given that 2023 is also the International Year of Millets, and that India has a rich culinary history and heritage of millets, the G20 Summit is all set to feature millet-based dishes from around the country.
While India is all set to host the delegates with some delicious millet-based dishes, you can also try some amazing recipes to relish this global event at home. Whether you are craving for a hearty grain bowl, snack, or a crunchy yet healthy dosa, millets have got them all covered for you to try.
1. Bajra Bhel
In this salty, tangy appetizer, bajra, or pearl millet, is the star ingredient. The popular Indian street food Bhel Puri has been given a delightful makeover with Bajra Bhel. The dish is given a nutty crunch from the roasted and crushed bajra grains, and a flavorful explosion comes from the combination of spices and chutneys. Bajra Bhel is a delicious way to get started with millets, especially when it's tossed with fresh vegetables and herbs.
2. Kebabs Foxtail Millet
Foxtail millet, which is prized for its high protein content and delicate texture, is used to make these delicious kebabs. Foxtail Millet Kebabs are a culinary delight, made with a medley of flavorful herbs and spices. These vegetarian kebabs highlight India's dedication to eco-friendly food choices by being both nutrient-dense and sustainable.
3. Sorghum Stir-Fry
In this filling stir-fry, the versatile millet sorghum, also known as jowar, steals the show. Sorghum Stir-Fry is a nutritious and eye-catching dish that is chopped into bite-sized pieces and sautéed with a variety of colorful vegetables. Because millet has a mild flavor by nature, it can easily absorb the flavor of the aromatic spices and seasonings, creating a dish that's filling and healthy.
4. Ragi Raita
Ragi Raita makes the health benefits of ragi, or finger millet, abundantly clear. The earthy goodness of ragi flour, which not only adds a delightful texture but also a rich, nutty flavor, is used to enhance this creamy yogurt-based dish. To counteract the spiciness of Indian food, ragi raita is a cooling side dish that is served with the meal.
5. Little Millet Pulao
Little millet, which is valued for its high nutritional content despite its small size, is transformed into a delicious pulao that is filling and flavorful. Little Millet Pulao is an example of the inventiveness of Indian cuisine. It is prepared with flavorful spices, fresh vegetables, and roasted nuts. This millet-based dish demonstrates how delicious healthy eating can be.
6. Proso Millet Dosa
Proso millet, which has a mildly sweet and nutty flavor, makes a delightful appearance in the form of dosa. An example of the adaptability of millets in conventional Indian cuisine is the Proso Millet Dosa, a savory crepe. This dosa is soft inside and crisp outside, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors from other countries. It is served with a variety of chutneys and sambar.
7. Kodo Millet Payasam
Kodo Millet Payasam, a sweet indulgence that encapsulates the essence of Indian desserts, serves as the culinary culmination of this millet-infused culinary journey. Perfectly cooked Kodo millet is simmered in a flavorful concoction of jaggery, coconut milk, and cardamom. The outcome is a rich, fragrant payasam that typifies Indian culture's friendliness and hospitality.
In addition to showcasing India's culinary diversity and emphasizing the nation's dedication to promoting healthy and sustainable eating habits, the exquisite menu for the G20 Summit featured seven dishes made from millet. These dishes will showcase millets' rich nutritional content and versatility in different cuisines by combining flavors and textures in a way that is uniquely their own. India's use of millets offers a motivational example of how traditional ingredients can be incorporated into contemporary, international diets, ultimately benefiting both our health and the environment. As the world looks for healthier food options, millets are a great source of fiber. This menu serves as a gentle reminder to savor the rich and varied flavors of the cuisines of the world while addressing global issues.