Introduction

Hello, food lovers! Today, I’m bringing you a delightful recipe that combines the goodness of Proso Millet with the sweetness of peas. These Millet and Pea Fritters are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal, these fritters are sure to become a household favorite. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 cup Proso Millet
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 cup chickpea flour (besan)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2-3 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. Cook the Millet:
   • Rinse the Proso 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 let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the millet is tender and the water is absorbed.
   • Once cooked, fluff the millet with a fork and set it aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Fritter Mixture:
   • If using frozen peas, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain and rinse under cold water.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked Proso Millet, green peas, chopped onion, minced garlic, cilantro, ground cumin, ground coriander, chili powder, turmeric powder, chickpea flour, salt, and pepper.
   • Mash the mixture slightly with a fork or potato masher, leaving some peas whole for texture.
   • Mix everything well until it comes together into a thick batter. If the mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.
3. Shape and Fry the Fritters:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and shape it into a small patty or fritter. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
   • Carefully place the fritters in the hot skillet, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
   • Fry the fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
   • Transfer the cooked fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
4. Serve:
   • Serve the Millet and Pea Fritters hot, with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty finish.
   • These fritters pair wonderfully with a tangy yogurt dip, chutney, or your favorite sauce.

Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the fritter mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Shape and fry the fritters when ready to serve.
• Variations: Add grated carrots, zucchini, or chopped spinach to the mixture for extra veggies and color.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure that the chickpea flour (besan) is certified gluten-free if needed.

Conclusion

These Millet and Pea Fritters are a fantastic way to enjoy the nutritional benefits of Proso Millet in a fun and flavorful form. Crispy, savory, and satisfying, they make a great addition to any meal or a perfect snack on their own. Give this recipe a try and let the delightful flavors and textures win you over. Enjoy and happy cooking!