Grains With Maximum Gain

Millets are a boon to mankind in many ways. They nourish the body as well as sustain Mother Earth more than conventional grains, making them a better alternative, says Naini Setalvad

- Naini Setalvad

The onset of cold weather makes you want to devour a hearty meal and, later, snuggle up with a warm blanket. Contrary to popular belief, a comforting meal doesn't have to be unhealthy. The use of nutritious ingredients with delectable flavours is key. This year has been declared the International Year of Millets by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, so let me show you how you can incorporate millet into healthy delicious meals.

Before we dive in, let's understand what millets are. They are seeds that have been grown since ancient times and have similar taste, structure, and properties as grains. Due to their high fibre and protein content, they do not spike blood sugar levels. Rich in numerous vitamins and minerals, they are a good source of nutrients.

An other wonderful aspect of millets is that they require much less water to grow than conventional grains, making them a sustainable alternative.

Our country grows a variety of millets. Below are some popular ones you can try:

● Sorghum Millet (Jowar)

Like most millets, sorghum is rich in fibre and low on the glycaemic index ( i.e., it doesn't spike blood sugar levels and is beneficial for diabetics). It is a potent source of iron, magnesium, and Vitamin C. It also contains B vitamins, which help the body build new tissues and cells

Sorghum

Upma

Ingredients

2cups cooked jowar kernels

1 onion, chopped

1 carrot, finely chopped

1/4 cup peas

2 tbsp roasted peanuts inch ginger, grated

2cloves garlic, crushed

2 green chillies, slit or chopped

2tsp lemon juice

1/2 tsp turmeric powder haldi)

Salt to taste

2 tsp black pepper powder

2 tsp ghee

Coriander dhania) leaves, small bunch, finely chopped