Millets are ancient grains packed with fibre, protein, and essential nutrients, making them ideal for a winter diet. Their “warm” nature, according to Ayurvedic principles, helps the body maintain core temperature and boosts immunity during the cold season.
Here are four simple and nutritious millet recipes to incorporate into your healthy winter routine.
4 Millet Recipes For A Healthy Winter Diet
1. Bajra Roti or Paratha
Bajra is one of the most popular millets for winter due to its high fibre and heat-producing properties. It significantly helps to keep the body warm from within and is rich in iron, which combats winter fatigue.
Instead of using just wheat flour, mix Bajra flour with a little whole wheat flour and warm water to make a soft dough. Roll out thick rotis or parathas and cook them with ghee. Serve hot with a dollop of fresh safed makkhan and jaggery for a traditional, energy-boosting meal.
2. Ragi Porridge
Ragi is a superfood rich in calcium, making it excellent for bone health, crucial in the low-sunlight winter months. It’s easily digestible and provides sustained energy, preventing the mid-day slumps common in winter.
Mix Ragi flour with water to form a smooth paste. Add this paste to boiling milk and continue stirring until it thickens. Sweeten with jaggery or dates. Garnish with crushed almonds and walnuts for added warmth and healthy fats.
ALSO READ- 7 Best Winter Superfoods To Boost Immunity This Season
3. Jowar Vegetable Khichdi
Jowar is known for its complex carbohydrates and is naturally gluten-free. Khichdi is a comforting, one-pot dish. Jowar provides a slower release of energy and helps manage blood sugar levels.
Soak whole Jowar grains overnight. Pressure cook the Jowar with seasonal winter vegetables like carrot, moong dal, turmeric, and ginger. Season with a light tadka of cumin seeds and hing in ghee. Add a spoonful of ghee just before serving to enhance nutrient absorption and flavour.
4. Foxtail Millet Pulao
Foxtail millet is an excellent replacement for rice and is rich in protein and iron. It is a low-glycemic index food, making it healthy and suitable for everyone. It provides a lighter yet fulfilling meal.
Lightly saute whole spices in oil or ghee. Add chopped onions, ginger-garlic paste, and sauté. Add soaked Foxtail millet and mixed winter vegetables. Add hot water and cook until the millet is tender and fluffy. Pair with fresh cucumber and tomato raita or a bowl of warm, spiced lentil soup.
