Introduction

Millet Chivda is a crunchy and flavorful snack made from a variety of millets, nuts, and spices. It’s a healthier twist on the traditional chivda (Indian snack mix) that typically uses flattened rice (poha). Millets add a nutritious punch to this snack, making it ideal for munching anytime. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious Millet Chivda at home.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Mixed Millets (you can use a combination of foxtail millet, little millet, barnyard millet, etc.)
• 1/2 cup Peanuts
• 1/2 cup Roasted Gram (Chana dal)
• 1/4 cup Cashew Nuts
• 1/4 cup Raisins
• 10-12 Curry Leaves
• 2-3 Green Chilies, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon Cumin Seeds
• 1 teaspoon Mustard Seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Red Chili Powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt to taste
• 2-3 tablespoons Oil (preferably sesame oil or any cooking oil of your choice)
• A pinch of Asafoetida (hing)
• Optional: 1/4 cup Coconut Slices or Chips

Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Millets

1. Dry Roast Millets:
   • Heat a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat.
   • Dry roast the mixed millets until they turn light golden and crisp. Stir continuously to prevent burning. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Fry Nuts and Raisins:
   • In the same pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil.
   • Fry peanuts, cashew nuts, and roasted gram (chana dal) until they turn golden brown and crisp.
   • Remove them with a slotted spoon and set aside.
   • Fry raisins until they puff up. Remove and set aside.
2. Temper Spices:
   • In the same pan, add remaining oil.
   • Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them splutter.
   • Add asafoetida (hing), chopped green chilies, and curry leaves. Saute for a few seconds until aromatic.

Step 3: Mix and Season

1. Add Dry Ingredients:
   • Reduce heat to low. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
2. Combine Everything:
   • Add the roasted millets, fried nuts, raisins, and optional coconut slices/chips to the pan.
   • Mix everything well until all the ingredients are coated evenly with the spices.

Step 4: Cool and Store

1. Cool Down:
   • Allow the Millet Chivda mixture to cool completely on a large tray or plate. This helps in crisping up the chivda further.
2. Store:
   • Once cooled, transfer the Millet Chivda to an airtight container.
   • It stays fresh for up to 2 weeks at room temperature. Enjoy it as a crunchy snack anytime!

Tips for Making Perfect Millet Chivda

• Even Roasting: Ensure millets, nuts, and gram are roasted evenly on medium heat to avoid burning.
• Customize Flavors: Adjust spice levels according to your preference. You can also add dried curry leaves powder or chat masala for extra flavor.
• Variations: Feel free to add roasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for added crunch and nutrition.

Conclusion

Millet Chivda is a nutritious and crunchy snack that is perfect for munching on-the-go or serving at gatherings. Packed with the goodness of millets, nuts, and spices, it offers a healthier alternative to store-bought snacks. Whether enjoyed with tea or packed in lunch boxes, Millet Chivda is sure to be a hit with everyone. Try this easy recipe at home and savor the deliciousness and health benefits of millets in every bite!

Enjoy making and sharing this wholesome Millet Chivda with your friends and family!