Millet Khichdi (Foxtail Millet Khichdi)

Yields: Approximately 4 servings

Prep Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour (for soaking)

Cook Time: 20-30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup foxtail millet (soaked for 30 minutes to 1 hour)
• 1/2 cup moong dal (split yellow lentils)
• 2 1/2 cups water
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, peas, capsicum)
• 1/4 cup methi leaves (fenugreek leaves) or 1/2 cup chopped spinach
• 1 small tomato, deseeded and chopped (optional)
• 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (or 1 green chili chopped, adjust to taste)
• 1/8 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon garam masala (optional)

Instructions:

1. Soak and drain: Soak the millet and moong dal for 30 minutes to 1 hour. The longer they soak, the softer they’ll cook. Then, drain them in a colander.
2. Sauté aromatics: Heat ghee or oil in a pressure cooker or pot. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add ginger and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add vegetables: Add all the vegetables, including the tomato (if using). Sauté on medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add spices: Add red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala (if using), and salt. Sauté until the tomatoes are mushy.
5. Add millet and dal: Add the drained millet and dal. Sauté for 2-3 minutes.
6. Add water and cook: Add water and check the salt. Pressure cook on medium heat for 2-3 whistles or until the millet and dal are cooked through.
7. Serve: Serve hot with papad and pickle.

Estimated Nutrition Information (per serving):

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Protein: 8-10 grams
• Fat: 5-8 grams (depending on oil/ghee used)
• Carbohydrates: 35-40 grams
• Fiber: 4-5 grams

Note: These are approximate values and can vary depending on the exact ingredients and quantities used.

Tips:

• You can use other vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, or sweet potatoes.
• To make it vegan, substitute ghee with oil.
• If you don’t have a pressure cooker, you can cook the khichdi in a pot on the stovetop, simmering until the millet and dal are tender.

Foxtail millet khichdi is a nutritious and delicious dish that is easy to digest and packed with flavor!