30 mins
15 minsA staple across countless Indian households is the crowd favourite, pulao. It is a hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion, be it a midday low-key lunch or as a centrepiece at functions. Traditionally, pulao is made with rice, vegetables and aromatic spices, with or without added protein. However, with the wonder millets taking centre stage as of late, why not try putting a spin on the classic with millet pulao? The humble millet pairs beautifully with the veggie mix with its nutty flavour and distinctive texture. Explore the savoury goodness of this millet pulao recipe within minutes.
Experience the taste of a home cooked meal in minutes. Here’s how to make millet pulao at home:
Step 2: While the millets are soaking, quickly chop all the vegetables simultaneously.
Step 3: Now, in a large pan, heat some oil over medium heat. To this, add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, bay leaf, clover and cardamom pods. Let this splutter for a bit before you add in the sliced onions.
Step 4: Saute the onions until golden brown. Consequently, add in the ginger garlic paste with green chillies and give this another toss.
Step 5: Introduce the chopped tomatoes to this mix and cook until mushy. Next, add in all your chopped veggies and let this simmer for another four minutes.
Step 6: After the vegetables are halfway done, add in the millet with the leftover spices and combine well.
Step 7: Gently pour two cups of water into this mix, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for twenty minutes until the water is fully absorbed.
Step 8: Take the utensil off the heat and let it sit covered for another five or so minutes.
While serving, fluff the millet pulao and top it with the coriander garnish and a tablespoon of ghee.
Millet pulao is a new-age twist on an age-old recipe. Being a powerhouse of nutrition, foxtail millet, when added to a medley of vegetables, offers a myriad of benefits.
This recipe may support most of the millets, with each offering its own unique set of nutrients. Here, foxtail millet boasts good amounts of dietary fibre and proteins, as well as essential minerals. Its fibre content may help maintain blood sugar levels and optimal gut health. Whereas, the high protein content can make this cereal crop a great option for vegetarians.
Based on the combination of vegetables you add to this recipe may help add further nutritional value to your diet. Take carrots, for instance. They are rich in beta-carotene, which may support eye health. While peas and beans are rich sources of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that may provide a sense of fullness for longer periods while assisting with digestion.
Such a combination of millet and vegetables allows for a well-rounded diet that supports various aspects of health and metabolic processes.
As a main course, the millet pulao can be paired with a variety of side dishes. This may include a serving of raita, green salad, papad or some pickled vegetables. Such accompaniments can help elevate the flavours of the millet pulao ingredients and offer a diverse texture.
For a much more holistic meal, you can pair this with a warm curry, lentil soup or dal as well. You may even add some paneer (cottage cheese), tofu, grilled chicken or even chickpeas to the existing recipe. This will help you supplement extra protein to support your daily nutritional requirements. If you are craving something sweet yet filling for a midday meal, try incorporating dried raisins, cranberries and nuts into the millet pulao recipe for a fun twist.
Millets are delightful and nourishing, with each of their varieties relaying unique benefits. So, experiment with a range of millets to suit your dietary needs. Whether you are craving a savoury fix, a protein boost or a sweet salad, the sky is the limit owing to the versatility of this millet pulao.
