Hello, food enthusiasts! Today, I am excited to share a delightful and healthy Indian dessert recipe: Proso Millet (Chena) Kheer. Proso millet, also known as Chena in some regions, is a nutritious grain that adds a unique texture and health benefits to this traditional kheer. This creamy and aromatic kheer is not only easy to make but also packed with essential nutrients, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Let’s dive into this comforting recipe!

Ingredients

To prepare this creamy Proso Millet (Chena) Kheer, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup proso millet (chena), washed and drained
• 4 cups milk (whole milk gives a richer taste)
• 1/2 cup sugar (adjust as per sweetness preference)
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios)
• 1 tablespoon raisins
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
• A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
• 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
• 1 tablespoon dried coconut flakes (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Proso Millet

1. Rinse the proso millet thoroughly under running water to remove any impurities.
2. In a heavy-bottomed pan, dry roast the washed millet on low to medium heat until it turns aromatic. This helps to enhance its nutty flavor. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Proso Millet

1. In the same pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee over medium heat.
2. Add the roasted proso millet and sauté for a minute.
3. Pour in 2 cups of milk and bring it to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently until the millet is cooked and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Step 3: Prepare the Kheer

1. Once the millet is cooked and the mixture thickens, add the remaining 2 cups of milk and stir well.
2. Add sugar according to your taste preference and mix until it dissolves completely.
3. Stir in the chopped nuts, raisins, cardamom powder, and saffron strands (if using).
4. Continue to simmer the kheer on low heat for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Once the kheer reaches the desired consistency and the flavors meld together, turn off the heat.
2. Garnish with dried coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.
3. Serve the Proso Millet (Chena) Kheer warm or chilled as per your preference.

Tips for Perfect Proso Millet Kheer

• Consistency: Adjust the amount of milk and cooking time to achieve the desired thickness of the kheer.
• Sweetness: You can adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste. Alternatively, you can use jaggery or any other sweetener of your choice.
• Flavor: Enhance the flavor of the kheer by adding a pinch of saffron strands soaked in warm milk.

Health Benefits of Proso Millet Kheer

• Rich in Fiber: Proso millet is rich in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a healthy gut.
• Gluten-Free: Proso millet is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
• Packed with Nutrients: Proso millet is a good source of protein, B vitamins, and essential minerals like iron and magnesium.
• Low Glycemic Index: Proso millet has a low glycemic index, making it a suitable choice for managing blood sugar levels.

Serving Suggestions

Proso Millet Kheer can be enjoyed warm during winters or chilled during summers. It makes for a comforting dessert after a hearty meal and is perfect for festive occasions and family gatherings.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making and savoring this creamy Proso Millet (Chena) Kheer as much as I do! It’s a delightful way to incorporate the goodness of millet into your diet while indulging in a comforting Indian dessert. 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!