Eating wonder foods which gives nourishment is what everybody is after. So much is the rush that foreign grains like quinoa has made it to the top of the list replacing our humble rice and wheat. Never mind the cost. In all this melee, the humble millet which is supposedly the first grains and packed with nourishment has taken a back seat.
Did you know that this group of grains is so packed with nutrients and lends itself to a variety of dishes since each of the millets has a distinct taste? Not only does it add variety, but also packs quite a punch of nutrients not found in traditional cereals.
Here is a short nutritional profiling of millets:
1. Millets contain good quality proteins with a balanced amino acid profile
2. Is a good source of phosphorus, calcium and iron
3. They are rich in vitamins
4. Good source of non starchy carbs and fibre
5. Free of gluten. Can be eaten safely by people with celiac disease
What are the types available and what is it called in local (south Indian) language??
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ENGLISH
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HINDI
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TAMIL
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KANNADA
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TELUGU
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MALAYALAM
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Finger millet
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Nachani /mundua
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Kezhvaragu
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Ragi
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Ragula
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Panji pullu
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Kodo millet
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Koden/Kodra
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Varagu
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Harka
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Arikelu
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Koovaragu
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Foxtail millet
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Kangni/Rala
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Thinai
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Navane
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Korra
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Thina
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Little millet
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Kutki
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Saamai
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Saame
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Sama
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Chama
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Barnyard millet
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Jhangora
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Kuthiravali
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Oodalu
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Odalu
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Kavadapullu
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Pearl millet
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Bajra
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Kambu
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Sajje
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Sajjalu
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Kambam
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Sorghum
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Jowar
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Cholam
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Jola
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Jonna
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Cholam
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It is relatively inexpensive and has a nutty flavor and can be used in a variety of dishes as a whole grain or flour. It also lends itself to baking and continental dishes.
Finger millet is available in plenty in karnataka as it is widely consumed. Other millets are also available in many organic stores and retail outlets in karnataka.
