Hello, food enthusiasts! Today, we’re sharing a nutritious and comforting dish that’s perfect for breakfast or any time of the day – Barnyard Millet Pongal. Barnyard millet, also known as Sanwa or Sama, is a small, gluten-free grain packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients. It’s an excellent alternative to rice and brings a unique texture and flavor to traditional dishes. This Barnyard Millet Pongal is a healthy and delicious twist on the classic South Indian comfort food. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

For the Pongal

• 1 cup barnyard millet (Sanwa/Sama)
• 1/2 cup split yellow moong dal (yellow lentils)
• 4 cups water
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt to taste

For the Tempering

• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 8-10 cashew nuts
• 10-12 curry leaves
• A pinch of asafoetida (hing)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Millet and Dal

1. Rinse and Soak:
   • Rinse the barnyard millet and moong dal separately under running water until the water runs clear.
   • Soak the millet and dal together in enough water for about 30 minutes. This helps in softening the grains and reduces cooking time.

Step 2: Cook the Millet and Dal

2. Cook the Millet and Dal:
   • Drain the soaked millet and dal.
   • In a pressure cooker, add the drained millet and dal, 4 cups of water, turmeric powder, and salt.
   • Close the lid and cook for 3-4 whistles or until the millet and dal are soft and mushy.
   • Once the pressure releases, open the lid and mash the mixture lightly to get a creamy consistency. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Tempering

3. Heat the Ghee:
   • In a small pan, heat the ghee over medium flame.
   • Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter.
   • Add the black peppercorns and sauté for a few seconds.
4. Add the Aromatics:
   • Add the grated ginger, cashew nuts, curry leaves, and a pinch of asafoetida.
   • Sauté until the cashew nuts turn golden brown and the curry leaves become crisp.

Step 4: Assemble the Pongal

5. Combine and Simmer:
   • Pour the tempering over the cooked millet and dal mixture.
   • Mix well to combine all the flavors.
   • If the pongal is too thick, you can add a little hot water to adjust the consistency. Simmer for a few more minutes.

Step 5: Serve

6. Serve Hot:
   • Transfer the Barnyard Millet Pongal to a serving bowl.
   • Garnish with a few more fried cashew nuts and a drizzle of ghee if desired.
   • Serve hot with coconut chutney, sambar, or pickle.

Tips and Tricks

• Consistency: Adjust the consistency of the pongal by adding more water if needed. It should be creamy and slightly runny.
• Flavor Variations: You can add a handful of chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, or beans to the pongal for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of black pepper according to your taste preference. You can also add a green chili for extra heat.

Health Benefits of Barnyard Millet

• Nutrient-Rich: Barnyard millet is high in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals like iron, magnesium, and phosphorus.
• Gluten-Free: It’s naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
• Low Glycemic Index: Barnyard millet has a low glycemic index, which helps in managing blood sugar levels and is beneficial for diabetics.
• Digestive Health: The high fiber content aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut.

This Barnyard Millet Pongal is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy, making it a perfect dish for those looking to enjoy traditional flavors with a modern, nutritious twist.

Happy cooking and enjoy your wholesome Barnyard Millet Pongal!

We hope you enjoy this Barnyard Millet Pongal recipe! Share your experiences and photos with us in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag us on social media. Happy eating!