Hello, dear readers! Today, we are excited to bring you a unique and nutritious twist on a classic Indian dessert – Little Millet Kheer. Also known as Sama or Kutki, little millet is a small, gluten-free grain packed with health benefits. It’s a great alternative to rice or wheat and can be used in various dishes, including this delicious kheer. Little Millet Kheer is creamy, aromatic, and perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings while nourishing your body. Let’s dive into this simple yet delectable recipe!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup little millet (Sama/Kutki)
• 4 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1/2 cup sugar or sweetener of choice
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
• 10-12 cashew nuts
• 10-12 almonds
• 10-12 raisins
• 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
• A few strands of saffron (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon rose water (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Millet

1. Rinse and Soak:
   • Rinse the little millet thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear.
   • Soak the millet in water for about 30 minutes. This helps in softening the grains and reduces cooking time.

Step 2: Cook the Millet

2. Cook the Millet:
   • Drain the soaked millet and set it aside.
   • In a heavy-bottomed pan, add 1 tablespoon of ghee and heat it on medium flame.
   • Add the drained millet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it emits a nutty aroma.
   • Add 2 cups of water and cook the millet until it’s soft and the water is absorbed. This should take around 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Kheer

3. Simmer with Milk:
   • Add 4 cups of milk to the cooked millet and bring it to a boil.
   • Reduce the heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent the millet from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
4. Add Sweetener and Flavorings:
   • Once the milk has reduced and thickened to your desired consistency, add the sugar or sweetener and mix well.
   • Add the cardamom powder and saffron strands (if using). Stir to combine.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

5. Roast the Nuts:
   • In a small pan, heat a teaspoon of ghee and add the cashew nuts, almonds, and raisins.
   • Roast until the nuts are golden brown and the raisins are plump.
6. Garnish the Kheer:
   • Add the roasted nuts and raisins to the kheer.
   • If using, add the rose water for an extra layer of aroma and flavor.
   • Mix everything well and remove from heat.
7. Serve:
   • Serve the Little Millet Kheer warm or chilled, as per your preference. Garnish with a few extra saffron strands or nuts for a beautiful presentation.

Tips and Tricks

• Consistency: Adjust the consistency of the kheer by adding more milk if it becomes too thick. Remember, kheer tends to thicken further as it cools.
• Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness according to your taste. You can also use jaggery or coconut sugar as healthier alternatives to refined sugar.
• Variations: Add a splash of rose water or a few drops of vanilla extract for a different flavor profile. You can also experiment with different nuts and dried fruits.

Health Benefits of Little Millet

• Rich in Nutrients: Little millet is a powerhouse of nutrients, including protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals like iron, magnesium, and phosphorus.
• Gluten-Free: It’s naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
• Low Glycemic Index: Little millet has a low glycemic index, which helps in managing blood sugar levels and is beneficial for diabetics.
• Digestive Health: The high fiber content aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut.

This Little Millet Kheer is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a boon for your health. It’s a perfect dessert for festive occasions, family gatherings, or simply when you want to enjoy a guilt-free sweet dish.

Happy cooking and enjoy the wholesome goodness of Little Millet Kheer!

We hope you love this recipe as much as we do! Share your Little Millet Kheer creations with us in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag us on social media. Happy indulging!