It seems that everyone nowadays is talking about millets. There are several types of millets and different ways to cook them. These highly nutritious grains may sound fancy/ expensive, but many of them are actually quite commonly available. In India, millets such as ragi, jowar and bajra have been used in traditional dishes since ancient times. If you're looking for an easy, delicious and convenient way to add millets to your diet, we have a few suggestions. And our top recommendation would be to use them while preparing the batter for idli and dosa.
Also Read: 10 Tasty And Healthy Millet Snack Recipes You Need To Try ASAP
Why You Should Use Millets To Make Idli/ Dosa Batter:
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Idli and dosa are known to be healthy foods. They don't require much oil for preparation. The fermentation of the batter used for them can boost your gut health. Rice and lentils are popularly used for making the batter. But adding millet to it can benefit you in many ways. Here is why millet dosa/ idli batter is good for you:
1. Supports heart health
Millets contain magnesium and potassium, which are good for managing blood pressure. They contain phytonutrients that can help fight against cardiovascular diseases. They are also known to lower bad LDL cholesterol levels.
2. Can help manage blood sugar levels
Millets are an excellent source of fibre and have a low glycemic index. They cause blood sugar levels to rise gradually rather than spiking. Thus, they can be suitable for those suffering from diabetes and related problems.
3. Good for your gut
The fibre content of millets also contributes to your gut health. Consuming them can help support the growth of good gut bacteria. Millets themselves are free of gluten (however, other ingredients of the idli/ dosa batter may contain gluten).
4. Rich in antioxidants
Millets are packed with antioxidants that can help protect your body from free radical damage. They can also boost your long-term health and immunity.
5. Can aid in weight loss
Since millets are high in fibre, protein and nutrients, they can be a wonderful addition to your weight loss diet. They can promote satiety, curb cravings and give you a sustained energy boost.
Also Read: Can We Eat Jowar In Summer? Know When And How To Have This Healthy Millet
How To Make Idli And Dosa With Millets: 6 Easy Recipes You Must Try
1. Bajra Dosa
This is the easiest recipe to begin with. All it requires is the addition of bajra flour to your regular batter ingredients. Allow the prepared batter to ferment overnight for best results. Then you can make it for a protein-rich breakfast the next morning. Classic dosa pairings work in this case as well. Here's the step-by-step recipe.
2. Jowar Dosa
Jowar dosa is packed with fibre and protein
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Jowar can be used to make rotis/bhakris, cheelas, upma, snacks, etc. But why stop there? We invite you to try making jowar dosas at home. It is pretty simple. You need to combine jowar flour, rice flour, spices and some water to make a runny batter. You can enjoy it as it is or also add some veggie fillings inside. Watch the recipe video here.
3. Ragi Dosa
Ragi dosa is actually a traditional delicacy from South India. This fibre-rich dosa can be made with or without added spices. In this version, special tempering is mixed with the batter itself. We assure you, it tastes delicious! Find the full recipe here.
4. Samak dosa
Samak dosa is made using samak rice, also known as barnyard millet. This ingredient is especially used for vrat dishes, but you should also consider adding it to your regular diet. This dosa is made extra nutritious by the addition of singhara ka atta (water chestnut flour). It can be made with or without the spiced aloo stuffing. Click here for the complete recipe.
5. Ragi Idli
Ragi idli can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Photo Credit: iStock
Ragi idlis have an interesting brown flavour and distinctive texture. The batter is made using ragi flour and sooji. It has a hint of coriander, but you can always customise the flavours to your liking. Ragi idlis can be prepared relatively quickly. They go well with coconut chutney. Click here for the recipe.
6. Multigrain Idli
This special idli recipe contains the goodness of not just one millet but three (as well as wheat and urad dal). It's the definition of wholesomeness! If you want a unique and impressive idli to bring some variety to your meals, go for this one. It can be paired with sambar and chutney, as usual. Find the full recipe here.
The next time you're craving South Indian food, choose to make millet idlis and/ or dosas. Let us know how you like them!
Also Read: Millet Rice For Weight Loss And More: How To Make Millet Rice
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.