Introduction

Welcome to our kitchen! Today, we’re delighted to share a recipe for Barnyard Millet Kheer, a delightful and nutritious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Barnyard millet, known for its health benefits, adds a unique twist to this traditional Indian sweet dish. Rich in fiber, protein, and essential minerals, this kheer not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also provides a healthy dose of nutrients. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

To prepare Barnyard Millet Kheer, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

• 1/2 cup barnyard millet
• 4 cups milk (whole milk or your choice of milk)
• 1/2 cup jaggery or sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup mixed nuts (cashews, almonds, pistachios), chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
• A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
• 1 tablespoon ghee

Garnish

• Sliced almonds and pistachios
• Saffron strands (optional)
• Edible rose petals (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Barnyard Millet

1. Rinse and Soak: Rinse the barnyard millet under running water until the water runs clear. Soak the millet in enough water for 30 minutes.
2. Boil Milk: In a heavy-bottomed pan, bring the milk to a boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
3. Add Millet: Drain the soaked barnyard millet and add it to the boiling milk. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer.
4. Cook: Cook the millet in milk until it becomes soft and the milk reduces to a creamy consistency, stirring occasionally. This may take about 20-25 minutes.

Step 2: Add Sweetener and Nuts

1. Add Jaggery or Sugar: Once the millet is cooked and the milk has thickened, add jaggery or sugar according to your taste preference. Stir well until the sweetener dissolves completely.
2. Add Nuts and Flavoring: In a separate small pan, heat ghee over low heat. Fry the chopped nuts until they turn golden brown. Add the fried nuts, cardamom powder, and saffron strands (if using) to the kheer. Mix well.

Step 3: Simmer and Thicken

1. Simmer: Allow the kheer to simmer for another 5-7 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a thick and creamy consistency.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: Garnish with sliced almonds, pistachios, and a few saffron strands. You can also sprinkle edible rose petals for an elegant touch.
2. Serve: Serve Barnyard Millet Kheer warm or chilled, depending on your preference. Enjoy this nutritious and delightful dessert as a perfect end to any meal!

Tips and Variations

• Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the kheer by adding more milk if it becomes too thick or cooking it longer for a thicker consistency.
• Sweetness: Adjust the amount of jaggery or sugar based on your sweetness preference and the natural sweetness of the jaggery or sugar.
• Flavor: Enhance the flavor of the kheer by adding a pinch of nutmeg or a few drops of rose water.

Conclusion

Barnyard Millet Kheer is a wholesome and delicious dessert that brings together the goodness of barnyard millet with the richness of milk and nuts. Whether served warm or chilled, this kheer is sure to be a hit at festive gatherings or as a special treat for your loved ones. Give this recipe a try and savor the nutritious delight it brings. Share your experience in the comments below and explore more delightful recipes on our blog. Happy cooking!

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