Introduction
Welcome to our kitchen, where we bring you a delightful blend of traditional flavors and wholesome ingredients! Today, we're excited to share a special dessert recipe: Ishva Foxtail Millet Kheer. Kheer, a beloved Indian dessert, gets a nutritious twist with the addition of foxtail millet. This creamy, aromatic dish is perfect for festive occasions or whenever you crave a sweet treat that's also good for you. Let's dive into this easy-to-make, delicious recipe.
Ingredients
To prepare Ishva Foxtail Millet Kheer, gather the following ingredients:
- Ishva Foxtail Millet: 1/4 cup
- Milk: 4 cups
- Jaggery or Sugar: 1/2 cup (adjust to taste)
- Ghee: 1 tablespoon
- Cardamom Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Saffron Strands: A few strands (optional)
- Cashew Nuts: 2 tablespoons
- Almonds: 2 tablespoons, sliced
- Raisins: 1 tablespoon
- Water: 1 cup
Instructions
Step 1: Preparation
- Rinse and Soak: Rinse the foxtail millet under running water. Soak it in enough water for about 15-20 minutes. Drain before using.
Step 2: Cooking the Millet
- Cook Foxtail Millet: In a saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Add the drained foxtail millet. Cover and simmer on low heat for about 10-12 minutes, or until the millet is cooked and water is absorbed. Set aside.
Step 3: Making the Kheer
-
Boil Milk: In a heavy-bottomed pan, bring 4 cups of milk to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
-
Add Cooked Millet: Add the cooked foxtail millet to the simmering milk. Stir well and let it cook on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, until the millet blends well with the milk and the mixture thickens.
-
Sweeten: Add jaggery or sugar to the kheer. Stir continuously until it dissolves completely. If using jaggery, make sure to add it off the heat to prevent curdling.
-
Flavor: Add cardamom powder and saffron strands (if using) to the kheer. Mix well.
Step 4: Tempering
-
Prepare Tempering: In a small pan, heat ghee over medium heat. Add cashew nuts, sliced almonds, and raisins. Sauté until they turn golden brown and aromatic.
-
Combine: Add the tempered nuts and raisins to the kheer. Mix well.
Step 5: Serving
-
Serve Warm or Chilled: Pour the kheer into serving bowls. You can enjoy it warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
-
Garnish: Garnish with additional nuts and saffron strands for an elegant touch.
Health Benefits of Foxtail Millet
Foxtail millet is a nutrient-rich grain with several health benefits:
- Rich in Fiber: Supports digestive health and keeps you full longer.
- High in Protein: Provides essential amino acids for muscle repair and growth.
- Low Glycemic Index: Helps regulate blood sugar levels.
- Packed with Minerals: Contains iron, magnesium, and phosphorus for overall well-being.
Conclusion
Ishva Foxtail Millet Kheer is a delightful dessert that combines traditional flavors with modern health benefits. Perfect for festivals, special occasions, or simply to satisfy your sweet cravings, this kheer offers a rich and creamy texture that everyone will love. Enjoy the goodness of foxtail millet in this delicious treat and make your celebrations even more special.
Happy Cooking!