Millets are again in the news and this time because of the G20 Summit which is all set to be organized at National Capital’s Bharat Mandapan Convention Centre on 9th and 10th September 2023. State leaders from across the world are expected to visit this landmark event and preparations for this event are almost completed. Among many other security arrangements and cultural programmes, special emphasis is paid to food. Since the year 2023 is declared as the International Year of Millets, millet-based dishes will be the center of attraction.
With G20 Summit just around the corner, let us take you through 20 tasty and delicious millet-based dishes that you can enjoy and savour.
Bajra Khichdi
Made up of bajra, this khichdi is a super healthy and delicious meal. Made with bajra, vegetables and spices, this khichdi makes up for a bowl of pure comfort. This nutrient-rich meal is something you must add to your diet.
Ragi Mudde
Ragi mudde is a specialty from Karnataka and is made up of finger millet or ragi flour and water. These are healthy and nutrient-rich balls that can be served with different curries and gravies. One can have these healthy balls for breakfast or lunch.
Bajra Roti
A common delight in Haryana, Rajasthan and nearby areas, this is flatbread made up of bajra or pearly millet and is super healthy. One can replace regular wheat chapati with bajra roti for a highly nutritious diet. Don’t believe us? Give it a try.
Kodo Millet Upma
Upma is a breakfast staple in not just South Indian but other parts of India too. But this upma doesn’t have semolina but kodo millet. Made using kodo millet, veggies and spices, this upma is super delicious and extremely healthy.
Foxtail Millet Pongal
Foxtail millet or kangni is yet another nutritious millet. You may have had Pongal but have you ever tried kangni Pongal? This South Indian breakfast is made up of foxtail millet and lentils and is flavoured with black pepper and cumin.
Barnyard Millet Pulao
Pulao is a staple in Indian households, but this pulao doesn’t have rice but barnyard millet. To make this healthy pulao, just cook barnyard millet with vegetables, and spices. Serve it with boondi raita and enjoy.
Little Millet Idli
Yet another healthy and nutritious breakfast option is Idlis. Idlis are light and tasty, and you know what? These millet idlis are super healthy too. They are made up of a batter made with little millet, fermented rice and lentil.
Millet Bisi Bele Bath
Karnataka style Bisi Bele Bath is everybody’s favourite but what is this popular delight gets even healthier? To make this Karnataka-style spice dish, cook barnyard millet, lentils, vegetables and spices.
Millet Dosa
If dosa is your absolute love, it's time to try healthy and tasty ragi dosa. Made up of ragi and lentils, these dosas are crispy and are typically served with chutney and sambar. Have it for breakfast for a healthy and nutritious meal.
Sorghum Bhel
All of you must have tried bhel but have you ever tried millet bhel? This is a healthy and crunchy snack made with sorghum or jowar puffs, spices, and vegetables. It is easy to make, delicious and of course very healthy.
Ragi Malt
Ragi malt is a nutritious drink made from ragi or finger millet flour and is often sweetened with jaggery. This humble drink is known for high nutritional value and ample health benefits. This simple drink could be a boon for health.
Kodo Millet Kheer
Kheer is a popular dessert served in Indian households, but this kheer is special because of being made with kodo millet. It is a simple and comforting dessert made up of kodo millet, milk, sugar and nuts.
Bajra Khichdi
If khichdi makes you happy, bajra khichdi can make you happier. This humble khichdi has the goodness of pearl millet or bajra and is flavored with spices. One can serve this khichdi with curd or buttermilk for a better taste.
Sama Rice Pulao
If you have got bored of eating regular pulao, try this special pulao made up of barnyard millet. With added veggies and spices, it makes for a delicious meal. This pulao can also be served during fasting days.
Ragi Ladoo
Indian is a land of desserts and ladoos are among the most loved desserts. If you want your ladoos to be healthy, give them a touch of ragi. These are sweet balls made from roasted millet flour, ghee, and sugar or jaggery.
Kodo Millet Biryani
Biryani lovers, here is the healthier version of your beloved dish. This is a flavorful biryani prepared with kodo millet, aromatic spices, and vegetables. You can serve it with raita and have a good time with your family.
Millet Salad
This salad is a super easy way to incorporate millets into the diet. To make this salad, just grab some cooked millet (any millet of your choice) and toss it with some vegetables, spices and dressing. This healthy salad can be a part of your balanced diet.
Bajra Halwa
Halwas are enjoyed because of their soothing and comforting taste. This time, go beyond aata and sooji and try bajra halwa. Made up of bajra flour, ghee and sugar, this halwa can get ready in a few minutes and is also very delicious.
Ragi Murukku
Murukku is a crispy and savoury snack enjoyed in many parts of country. This perfect tea-time snack has a healthier version too. You can make this snack using ragi flour and bake it instead of frying.
Bajra Raab
Bajra raab is a traditional soup prepared in Gujarat and some parts of Rajasthan too. Since bajra is a powerhouse of essential nutrients, this soup benefits the body in so many ways. With added spices, this soup becomes healthy and must have for lactating mothers.