Hello, food lovers! Today, I am excited to bring you a healthy and delightful Indian dessert recipe: Kodo Millet (Varagu) Kesari. Kodo millet, known as Varagu in Tamil, is a nutritious grain that adds a unique flavor and texture to traditional Indian sweets. This Kesari is a perfect blend of taste and health, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. Let’s get started on this easy and delicious recipe!

Ingredients

To prepare this delectable Kodo Millet (Varagu) Kesari, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup kodo millet (varagu)
• 1 cup jaggery, grated (adjust sweetness as per taste)
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (cashews, almonds)
• 2 tablespoons raisins
• 1 teaspoon cardamom powder
• A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
• A pinch of salt
• A few drops of natural food color (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Kodo Millet

1. Wash the kodo millet thoroughly under running water and soak it in water for about 30 minutes.
2. Drain the soaked millet and cook it in a pan with 2 cups of water until the millet is soft and fully cooked. This should take about 15-20 minutes. Set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Jaggery Syrup

1. In a separate pan, add the grated jaggery with 1/4 cup of water.
2. Heat the mixture on a low flame until the jaggery melts completely.
3. Strain the syrup to remove any impurities and set it aside.

Step 3: Cook the Kesari

1. In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the ghee and add the chopped nuts and raisins. Fry them until they turn golden brown. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pan, add the cooked kodo millet and mix well with the remaining ghee.
3. Pour the jaggery syrup into the millet mixture and stir continuously to combine well.
4. Add the cardamom powder, saffron strands (if using), and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly.

Step 4: Add Color and Garnish

1. If you prefer, add a few drops of natural food color to the mixture and mix well until the color is evenly distributed.
2. Add the fried nuts and raisins to the Kesari and mix gently.
3. Cook for a few more minutes, stirring continuously, until the Kesari thickens and starts to leave the sides of the pan.

Step 5: Serve

1. Turn off the flame and let the Kesari cool slightly.
2. Serve warm, garnished with a few more nuts and saffron strands.

Tips for Perfect Kodo Millet Kesari

• Cooking Kodo Millet: Ensure that the millet is cooked until soft and tender. If it remains hard, the texture of the Kesari 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 Kesari thickens too much after cooling, you can add a little warm water or milk to adjust the consistency.

Health Benefits of Kodo Millet Kesari

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

Serving Suggestions

Kodo Millet Kesari is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed warm. 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 Kodo Millet (Varagu) Kesari as much as I do! It’s a wonderful way to incorporate the goodness of kodo 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!