Hello, food enthusiasts! Today, I am thrilled to share a traditional and nutritious Indian dessert recipe: Foxtail Millet (Thinai) Payasam. Foxtail millet, known as Thinai in Tamil, is a highly nutritious and versatile grain that’s perfect for creating delicious and healthy sweets. This payasam (kheer) is creamy, fragrant, and just the right amount of sweet. Let’s get started on this delightful recipe!

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious Foxtail Millet (Thinai) Payasam, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup foxtail millet (thinai)
• 1 liter full-fat milk
• 1/2 cup jaggery, grated (adjust sweetness as per taste)
• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, pistachios)
• 2 tablespoons raisins
• 1 teaspoon cardamom powder
• A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
• 2-3 tablespoons desiccated coconut (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Foxtail Millet

1. Wash the foxtail millet thoroughly under running water and soak it in water for about 30 minutes.
2. Drain the soaked millet and cook it in a pressure cooker with 1 cup of water for about 2-3 whistles, or until the millet is soft. Alternatively, you can cook it in a pan until it becomes tender. Set it aside.

Step 2: Boil the Milk

1. In a heavy-bottomed pan, bring the milk to a boil over medium flame. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom.
2. Once it comes to a boil, reduce the flame and let it simmer until it reduces slightly and thickens.

Step 3: Cook the Payasam

1. Add the cooked foxtail millet to the simmering milk. Mix well and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Add the grated jaggery to the mixture. Stir continuously until the jaggery dissolves completely and blends with the milk and millet.
3. In a small pan, heat the ghee and fry the chopped nuts and raisins until they are golden brown.
4. Add the fried nuts, raisins, and ghee to the payasam. Mix well.

Step 4: Add Flavors

1. Add the cardamom powder and saffron strands (if using) to the payasam. Mix thoroughly.
2. If you like, you can also add desiccated coconut for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Step 5: Serve

1. Let the payasam simmer for a few more minutes, allowing all the flavors to blend beautifully.
2. Turn off the flame and let it cool slightly.
3. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with a few more nuts and saffron strands.

Tips for Perfect Foxtail Millet Payasam

• Cooking Foxtail Millet: Ensure that the millet is cooked until soft. If it remains hard, the texture of the payasam will not be smooth.
• Sweetness: Adjust the amount of jaggery according to your taste preference. You can also use sugar or any other sweetener of your choice.
• Consistency: If the payasam thickens too much after cooling, you can add a little warm milk to adjust the consistency.

Health Benefits of Foxtail Millet Payasam

• Rich in Fiber: Foxtail millet is high in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.
• Gluten-Free: Foxtail millet is naturally gluten-free, making it a great alternative for those with gluten intolerance.
• Packed with Nutrients: Foxtail millet is a good source of protein, iron, and essential minerals like magnesium and phosphorus.
• Low Glycemic Index: Foxtail millet has a low glycemic index, making it suitable for people with diabetes.

Serving Suggestions

Foxtail Millet Payasam is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed warm or chilled. It’s perfect for festive occasions, family gatherings, or as a wholesome sweet treat after meals. Pair it with your favorite Indian meal for a complete dining experience.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making and savoring this delightful Foxtail Millet (Thinai) Payasam as much as I do! It’s a wonderful way to incorporate the goodness of foxtail millet into your diet while indulging in a sweet treat. Try this recipe and let me know how it turned out in the comments below. Happy cooking!

Feel free to share this recipe with your friends and family. Stay tuned for more healthy and delicious recipes!