Welcome to my kitchen! Today, we’re diving into a delicious and nutritious snack from Indian cuisine: Bajra Muthia. This traditional steamed dish is made from bajra (pearl millet), a superfood rich in fiber, protein, and essential nutrients. Bajra muthia is not only healthy but also incredibly versatile, making it a perfect tea-time snack or a wholesome addition to your meals. Let’s get started!

What is Bajra Muthia?

Muthia is a popular snack from the western region of India, particularly Gujarat. Traditionally made with various flours, muthia can be steamed or fried. In this recipe, we’ll use bajra flour, which gives it a unique flavor and a health boost.

Ingredients

For the dough:

• 1 cup bajra flour (pearl millet flour)
• 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup grated bottle gourd (lauki)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped spinach (optional)
• 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger paste
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon oil

For tempering:

• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
• Chopped coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine bajra flour, whole wheat flour, grated bottle gourd, and spinach (if using).
2. Add green chilies, ginger paste, cumin seeds, turmeric powder, red chili powder, lemon juice, salt, and oil.
3. Mix everything well and knead into a soft dough. If the dough feels too dry, you can add a little water, but be careful not to make it too sticky.

Step 2: Shape the Muthia

1. Divide the dough into equal portions and shape each portion into cylindrical rolls (about 1 inch in diameter).
2. Grease a steamer basket or a plate with oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Steam the Muthia

1. Place the shaped muthia in the steamer basket, ensuring they don’t touch each other.
2. Cover and steam for about 15-20 minutes or until they are cooked through. You can check by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.
3. Once done, let them cool for a few minutes before removing them from the steamer.

Step 4: Temper the Muthia

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
3. Add sesame seeds and a pinch of asafoetida, sautéing for a few seconds.
4. Add the steamed muthia to the pan and sauté them gently until they are lightly golden and well-coated with the tempering.

Step 5: Serve

1. Transfer the bajra muthia to a serving plate.
2. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
3. Serve hot with green chutney or yogurt dip.

Tips for Perfect Bajra Muthia

• Ensure the dough is soft but not too sticky to make shaping easier.
• You can experiment with adding other vegetables like carrots or fenugreek leaves for added flavor and nutrition.
• If you prefer a crispy texture, you can shallow fry the steamed muthia after tempering.

Health Benefits of Bajra

Bajra is an excellent source of:

• Fiber: Aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
• Protein: Essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in iron, magnesium, and B vitamins, supporting overall health.

Conclusion

Bajra muthia is a delightful and healthy snack that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrition. Perfect for tea time or as a side dish, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the flavors of traditional Indian cuisine with a healthy twist!