When it comes to traditional Indian sweets, kheer always holds a special place at the table. But what if we give this classic a healthy twist? 🥄✨ Enter Foxtail Millet Kheer, a creamy, nutrient-rich dessert that’s just as indulgent as the traditional rice version — but far more nourishing! 💛
🌾 What is Foxtail Millet?
Foxtail millet, known as “Kangni” or “Thinai” in India, is a super grain packed with fiber, protein, and essential minerals. It’s gluten-free and easy to digest, making it a perfect choice for health-conscious food lovers. 🍃
When turned into kheer, this humble millet transforms into a silky, aromatic delight — a dessert that pleases your taste buds and nourishes your body! 😋
🥘 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this luscious kheer:
- 🪶 Foxtail Millet – ½ cup
- 🥛 Full-fat Milk – 4 cups
- 🍬 Jaggery or Sugar – ¼ cup (adjust as per taste)
- 🌰 Cashews – 10–12, chopped
- 🍇 Raisins – 1 tbsp
- 🧈 Ghee (Clarified Butter) – 2 tbsp
- 🌼 Cardamom Powder – ½ tsp
- 🌹 Saffron Strands – few (optional, for flavor & color)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Recipe
1️⃣ Roast the Millet
Dry roast the foxtail millet in a pan over medium flame for 3–4 minutes until it turns aromatic and slightly golden. 🌾
2️⃣ Cook the Millet
Add 1½ cups of water to the roasted millet and cook until soft. You can pressure cook it for 2 whistles or cook in a pan until the grains are tender. 🔥
3️⃣ Add Milk and Simmer
Pour in the milk and let it simmer on low heat for 10–12 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking. The mixture will start to thicken beautifully. 🥣
4️⃣ Add Sweetness and Flavor
Now add jaggery (or sugar), saffron, and cardamom powder. Mix well until the jaggery dissolves completely. The heavenly aroma will fill your kitchen! 😍
5️⃣ Fry and Add Dry Fruits
In another small pan, heat ghee and fry cashews & raisins until golden. Pour this over your kheer and give it a gentle mix. ✨
6️⃣ Serve Warm or Chilled
Serve the kheer warm for cozy evenings or chilled for a refreshing treat. Both versions taste divine! 🍮
🌟 Health Benefits
💪 Rich in Iron & Protein – Great for boosting stamina and strength.
💖 Heart-Friendly – Helps regulate cholesterol levels.
🌿 Gluten-Free Goodness – Perfect for those with gluten intolerance.
🔥 Keeps You Full – A healthy dessert that doesn’t spike sugar levels quickly.
💡 Pro Tips
✅ Soak millet for 20 minutes before cooking — it softens quickly.
✅ Add a dash of coconut milk at the end for an exotic South Indian twist! 🥥
✅ Want it creamier? Use a mix of condensed milk and regular milk.
🍽️ Conclusion
Foxtail Millet Kheer is more than just a dessert — it’s a sweet fusion of tradition and health. Whether you’re celebrating a festival, hosting a dinner, or simply craving something indulgent yet guilt-free, this millet kheer promises pure comfort in every spoonful. 💫
So next time you plan to make kheer, swap rice for millet and taste the magic of healthy indulgence! 🌾💛