Introduction

Hello, veggie and grain enthusiasts! If you’re looking for a tasty, healthy alternative to traditional chicken tenders, these Herb-Crusted Millet Tenders are the answer. Made with Barnyard Millet and seasoned with a delicious blend of herbs, these tenders are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Perfect for a nutritious lunch, dinner, or even a fun appetizer. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 1 cup Barnyard Millet
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a GF option)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free flour blend)
• Olive oil or cooking spray (for baking)

Instructions

1. Cook the Millet:
   • Rinse the Barnyard Millet thoroughly under cold water.
   • In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the rinsed millet, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the millet is tender and the water is absorbed.
   • Once cooked, fluff with a fork and let it cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Herb Crust:
   • In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese (if using), dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Prepare the Breading Station:
   • Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with the herb breadcrumb mixture.
4. Shape the Millet Tenders:
   • Take small portions of the cooked millet and shape them into tender-like pieces or nuggets. You can use your hands or a spoon to form them.
5. Coat the Millet Tenders:
   • Dredge each millet piece in the flour, shaking off any excess.
   • Dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated.
   • Roll it in the herb breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well.
6. Cook the Tenders:
   • For Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the coated millet tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray or brush the tenders with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, turning halfway through.
   • For Frying: Heat a small amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the tenders in batches, cooking for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve:
   • Serve the herb-crusted millet tenders warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara, BBQ sauce, or a yogurt-based dip.

Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the tenders in advance and freeze them before baking or frying. To cook from frozen, increase the baking time by a few minutes or ensure they are heated through when frying.
• Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices in the breadcrumb mixture to suit your taste preferences.
• For Extra Crispiness: If you like extra crispy tenders, add a bit of cornmeal to the breadcrumb mixture or use panko breadcrumbs.

Conclusion

These Herb-Crusted Millet Tenders are a delightful and healthy twist on classic tenders. With the nutty flavor of Barnyard Millet and a crispy herb coating, they make a fantastic addition to your meal rotation. Enjoy these tenders as a nutritious main course or a fun and flavorful snack!