Magic Millets: Have You Tried These Millets?

By Sushmita Sengupta

Indian cuisine is not just about wheat or rice, millets like Ragi, Bajra, Jowar constitute a big component of our platter. It’s time you know your millets 

Pearl Millet 

Pear millet or Bajra arrived in India some 2000 years ago. Rajasthan is the largest grower of Bajra in India today, the millet contributes to food security of various continents such as Africa and Asia. 

Sorghum

A staple crop for those in semi-arid regions. The crop is again, native to Africa and is replete with fibre that is good for heart and weight-loss 

Finger Millet

Also known as Ragi or Nachni is parts of India, this millet with a course, earthy flavour is very crucial to some regions of Andhra and Karnataka, where rice growth is limited.  

Foxtail Millet

This is one of the oldest crops to be domesticated, foxtail millet is popular in arid and semi-arid regions. It is also very integral in high-rise Himalayas, where the millet is used to make Pulaos 

Barnyard Millet 

A short-lived crop that gains popularity around Navratri, that’s right, barnyard millet is what you cook to make Navratri special samak ke chawal. It is high in fibre and antioxidants.