Pesarattu is a popular South Indian breakfast dish similar to a crepe or dosa, made from a batter of green gram (moong dal) and rice. In this recipe, we’ll give a healthy twist by incorporating little millet, a highly nutritious gluten-free grain that enhances the flavor and nutritional profile of this traditional dish. Little Millet Pesarattu is not only delicious but also packed with fiber, protein, and essential minerals, making it an ideal choice for a wholesome start to your day.

Why Choose Little Millet?

Little millet offers several health benefits:

• High in Fiber: Promotes digestion and keeps you full.
• Rich in Minerals: Contains iron, calcium, and phosphorus.
• Gluten-Free: Suitable for individuals with gluten intolerance.
• Low Glycemic Index: Helps in managing blood sugar levels.

Now, let’s explore how to make this nutritious and delicious Little Millet Pesarattu!

Ingredients:

For Little Millet Pesarattu Batter:

• 1 cup little millet
• 1/2 cup whole green gram (moong dal)
• 1/4 cup rice (optional, for traditional texture)
• 2-3 green chilies (adjust to taste)
• 1-inch piece of ginger, chopped
• Salt to taste
• Water, as needed

For Making Pesarattu:

• Oil or ghee, as needed for cooking
• Finely chopped onions, green chilies, and coriander leaves for garnish (optional)
• Coconut chutney or tomato chutney for serving

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare Little Millet Pesarattu Batter

1. Rinse and Soak: Rinse little millet, whole green gram, and rice (if using) together under running water. Soak them in enough water for 4-6 hours or overnight.
2. Grind Batter: Drain the soaked millet, dal, and rice (if using). In a blender or food processor, grind them along with green chilies, ginger, and salt to a smooth batter, adding water as needed. The batter should be of pouring consistency, similar to dosa batter. Let the batter ferment for 4-6 hours or overnight to enhance flavor (optional).

Step 2: Make Little Millet Pesarattu

1. Heat Tawa: Heat a non-stick dosa tawa or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, pour a ladleful of batter onto the center of the tawa.
2. Spread Batter: Using the back of the ladle, spread the batter in a circular motion to form a thin layer, similar to a dosa. Drizzle a few drops of oil or ghee around the edges of the pesarattu.
3. Cook: Cook on medium heat until the edges start to lift and crisp up, and the bottom turns golden brown. Flip and cook the other side for a few seconds. Press gently with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
4. Serve: Remove from heat and transfer the Little Millet Pesarattu to a serving plate. Repeat the process with the remaining batter to make more pesarattus.

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy

1. Garnish: Garnish Little Millet Pesarattu with finely chopped onions, green chilies, and coriander leaves (optional).
2. Serve Warm: Serve hot Little Millet Pesarattu with coconut chutney, tomato chutney, or any chutney of your choice.

Tips for Perfect Little Millet Pesarattu:

• Batter Consistency: Adjust the amount of water while grinding to achieve the right consistency of the batter. It should be smooth and of pouring consistency.
• Fermentation: Fermentation is optional but enhances the flavor and digestibility of the pesarattu. If you prefer not to ferment, you can make pesarattu immediately after grinding the batter.
• Cooking Tips: Cook pesarattu on medium heat for crispy edges and even cooking. Use a well-seasoned non-stick tawa or griddle for best results.
• Variations: You can add finely chopped spinach, grated carrots, or fenugreek leaves to the batter for added nutrition and flavor.

Enjoy the Nutritious Breakfast Delight!

Little Millet Pesarattu is a wholesome and nutritious breakfast option that combines the health benefits of little millet with the traditional flavors of South Indian cuisine. Whether enjoyed for breakfast or as a light meal, this dish is sure to please with its crispy texture and delightful taste. Embrace the goodness of little millet in this easy-to-make recipe and start your day on a healthy note!