Introduction: Welcome to our millet recipe series! Today, we’re making a delicious and nutritious twist on a classic Middle Eastern favorite with Millet Falafel using Foxtail Millet. These crispy, golden falafels are packed with flavor and offer a healthy alternative to traditional recipes. Perfect as an appetizer, a snack, or a main dish!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Foxtail millet
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup dried chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2-3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or as needed)
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

1. Cook the Foxtail Millet:
   • Rinse the Foxtail millet under cold water.
   • In a medium saucepan, combine the millet and water. Bring to a boil.
   • Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the millet is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
   • Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let it cool.
2. Prepare the Chickpeas:
   • If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight in plenty of water. Drain and rinse before using.
   • Cook the soaked chickpeas in fresh water for 45-60 minutes, or until tender. Drain and let them cool.
3. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a food processor, combine the cooked chickpeas, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, cilantro, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground paprika, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pepper.
   • Process until the mixture is well combined but still slightly chunky.
4. Mix in the Millet:
   • Transfer the falafel mixture to a large bowl and fold in the cooled Foxtail millet.
   • If the mixture is too wet to form into balls, gradually add the all-purpose flour until it reaches a manageable consistency.
5. Form and Fry the Falafel:
   • Shape the mixture into small balls or patties, about 1-2 inches in diameter.
   • Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
   • Fry the falafel in batches, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 4-6 minutes per batch.
   • Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the falafel warm, with pita bread, hummus, tzatziki, or a fresh salad.

Tips:

• For a healthier option, you can bake the falafel. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the falafel on a baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• You can also customize your falafel by adding ingredients like chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or feta cheese.

Conclusion: These Millet Falafel with Foxtail Millet are a tasty and wholesome twist on the traditional falafel. The combination of nutty millet and aromatic spices makes for a delicious and satisfying dish. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments below!

Happy cooking and enjoy your homemade falafel!

4o mini