The United Nations has declared 2023 as the year of millets. There was a time when millets were the staple food in many parts of the world. Millets are popularly known as Bajra, Rajgira, Kakum, Kutt, chena in India and were once eaten by the common man. Rice was only served during special occasions and festivals but with time the cultivation of millets declined in India due to the change in cultivation pattern and colonisation.
One of the reasons behind cultivating millets is that they are very easy to grow and usually require less attention. They can be easily cultivated in non-arable land. In recent years, eating healthy has been in trend like cereals, superfoods, oats etc. Millets are one of the most nutritious foods that you can consume and it requires comparatively less effort and water to grow millets.
Millets are of two types :
- Husked grain millets: Foxtail, Kodo millets
- Naked grain millets: Ragi, Jowar, Bajra
Millets are rich in fibre, calcium, magnesium, copper, phosphorus and other nutrients. These are also gluten-free and get absorbed very easily. They are especially good for diabetic people as they are slow in digestion and hence do not cause a rise in blood sugar levels. Millet based snacks are loved throughout the world. Here are some of the millet-based snacks ideas that you can enjoy with your friends and family:
- Millet burger
- Millet bhelpuri
- Ragi wheat dosa
- Jowar Medley
- Foxtail millet porridge
- Ragi chakli
The best part about these snacks is that they are healthy and tasty. You can enjoy them without spoiling your diet chart.
AASTHA SINGH
