Welcome to our kitchen! Today, we’re creating a nutritious and colorful dish: Millet and Vegetable Stir-Fry. This recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy meal, combining the benefits of millet with a medley of fresh vegetables. Let’s get started!

Ingredients:

• For the Millet:
  • 1 cup millet
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1/4 tsp salt
• For the Stir-Fry:
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or sesame oil
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 cup snap peas or green beans, trimmed and halved
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Millet:
   • Rinse the millet under cold water.
   • In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil.
   • Add the rinsed millet and salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the millet is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
   • Fluff the millet with a fork and set aside.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • While the millet is cooking, prepare all the vegetables by slicing, mincing, and chopping as needed.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
   • In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil or sesame oil over medium-high heat.
   • Add the sliced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent.
   • Add the minced garlic and ginger, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
   • Add the bell peppers, carrot, broccoli, snap peas or green beans, and mushrooms. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Combine Millet and Vegetables:
   • Add the cooked millet to the skillet with the vegetables and stir to combine.
5. Season the Stir-Fry:
   • In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce or tamari, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using).
   • Pour the sauce over the millet and vegetables, stirring well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
   • Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is heated through and the flavors meld together.
6. Serve:
   • Remove the skillet from the heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
   • Serve the Millet and Vegetable Stir-Fry warm.

Tips and Variations:

• Protein Boost: Add tofu, tempeh, or grilled chicken for an extra protein boost.
• Different Vegetables: Use any combination of vegetables you like or have on hand, such as zucchini, baby corn, or cabbage.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure the soy sauce or tamari is gluten-free if needed.
• Flavor Enhancements: Add a splash of lemon or lime juice for a zesty finish, or top with fresh cilantro or parsley.

This Millet and Vegetable Stir-Fry is a versatile and nutritious meal that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavors and textures. Enjoy making and savoring this delicious dish!