In the journey back to our roots, embracing forgotten foods like foxtail millet brings a nutritious twist to our plates. Foxtail millet, a gluten-free, high-fiber grain, has been a part of traditional diets for centuries. Let’s dive into this traditional, heart-warming recipe for Foxtail Millet Khichdi. This dish is not only comforting but also brimming with goodness, making it a perfect one-pot meal for all ages.

Ingredients:

For the Millet Preparation:

• 1 cup foxtail millet (rinsed and soaked for 30 minutes)
• 1/4 cup split yellow moong dal (optional for added protein, rinsed and soaked with millet)

Vegetables:

• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 small potato, diced
• 1/2 cup green peas
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit

Spices and Seasoning:

• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1/2 tsp mustard seeds
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• Salt to taste

Tempering:

• 1-inch ginger, grated or finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh curry leaves (a handful)
• 2 tbsp ghee (for authentic flavor) or oil for a vegan option

Garnishing:

• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• Fresh lemon juice (optional, for tang)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Rinse the foxtail millet and split moong dal thoroughly. Soak them together for 30 minutes and then drain the water.
2. While they soak, prep the vegetables: dice the carrot and potato, chop the tomato and onion, and slit the green chilies.

Step 2: Start Cooking the Khichdi

1. In a heavy-bottomed pan or pressure cooker, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee. When it’s hot, add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Allow them to splutter, releasing their aromatic flavors.
2. Next, add the grated ginger, minced garlic, and a handful of fresh curry leaves. Sauté this mixture until the garlic turns golden and fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Spices and Vegetables

1. Add chopped onions and green chilies to the pan, cooking until the onions become translucent.
2. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Stir well, letting the spices cook for a minute to deepen their flavors.
3. Add the chopped tomato and a pinch of salt to help it soften. Sauté until the tomatoes turn mushy.

Step 4: Combine Millet, Lentils, and Vegetables

1. Add diced carrots, potatoes, and green peas to the pan. Stir to coat the vegetables with spices.
2. Mix in the drained foxtail millet and moong dal. Toast them lightly with the vegetables and spices for about 2-3 minutes. This step enhances the flavor of the grains.

Step 5: Add Water and Cook

1. Add 4 cups of water to the pan (use 3 cups if using a pressure cooker). Adjust the water quantity based on the consistency you prefer: more water for a softer, porridge-like texture, less for a slightly drier khichdi.
2. Add salt to taste. Give everything a good stir, scraping the bottom to prevent sticking.
3. Cover and cook:
   • Stovetop Method: Simmer on low heat, covered, for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until the millet and vegetables are tender.
   • Pressure Cooker Method: Close the lid and cook on medium heat for 2 whistles, then turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally.

Step 6: Final Touches and Garnish

1. Once the khichdi is cooked, open the lid and give it a gentle stir to combine.
2. Check the salt and spice levels, adjusting as needed. You can add a dash of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
3. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Foxtail Millet Khichdi hot, with a side of ghee or a dollop of curd. Pair it with a simple cucumber raita, pickle, or papad for a complete and balanced meal.

Why Choose Foxtail Millet?

Foxtail millet is among the nutritious “forgotten foods” making a comeback, loved for its high fiber content, low glycemic index, and richness in essential minerals. This khichdi is a satisfying, wholesome way to introduce millet into your diet, reconnecting with time-honored ingredients.

Enjoy the rustic flavor and nutrient-packed goodness of this traditional recipe—your taste buds and body will thank you!

Buy Forgotten Foods Foxtail millet now to try this recipe:

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Local names of Foxtail millet are:

Tamil: Thenai arisi
Kannada: Navane akki
Telugu: Korra biyam
Hindi: Kangni chawal