Sweet, creamy, and irresistibly aromatic, Kodo Millet Payasam is a delightful fusion of tradition and nutrition. 😍 This South Indian dessert takes the classic payasam recipe and gives it a healthier, millet-powered twist. Made with Kodo Millet (Kodri), coconut milk, jaggery, and flavored with cardamom, it’s perfect for festivals, special occasions, or simply as a guilt-free treat after a meal.
🌾 What is Kodo Millet Payasam?
Payasam is a quintessential Indian dessert, typically prepared with rice, milk, sugar, or jaggery. In this version, we replace rice with Kodo Millet, a gluten-free, high-fiber grain. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also gives the dessert a unique, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of jaggery and richness of coconut milk. 🥥
Kodo Millet Payasam is creamy yet light, making it suitable for those looking to indulge in a sweet treat without compromising on health. Its comforting aroma, smooth texture, and mild sweetness make it a festive favorite. 🎉
🌿 Why Use Kodo Millet?
Kodo Millet, also known as Kodri, is a nutrient-dense ancient grain widely used in Indian cooking. Here’s why it’s perfect for desserts:
💪 High in protein and fiber – aids digestion and keeps you full
🩸 Rich in iron – boosts hemoglobin levels
🌱 Low glycemic index – ideal for diabetics
🦴 Good source of calcium and magnesium – strengthens bones
🔥 Gluten-free and heart-friendly – perfect for all ages
By substituting rice with Kodo Millet, your payasam becomes a healthier, nutrient-packed dessert without sacrificing flavor.
🧺 Ingredients You’ll Need
🌾 Main Ingredients
- 1 cup Kodo Millet (Kodri) 🌾
- 4 cups Water 💧
- 1 cup Jaggery, grated 🟤
- 1 cup Coconut Milk 🥥
- 1 teaspoon Cardamom Powder 🌿
🥄 Optional Ingredients for Garnish
- 10–12 Cashews 🥜
- 10–12 Raisins 🍇
- 1 tablespoon Ghee 🧈
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Preparation
🕒 Step 1: Cook the Millet
- Wash Kodo Millet thoroughly and soak for 30 minutes.
- Boil in 4 cups of water until soft and slightly mushy (about 15–20 minutes).
💡 Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent the millet from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
🔥 Step 2: Prepare Jaggery Syrup
- In a separate pan, melt jaggery with a little water.
- Strain to remove impurities and keep the syrup aside.
🥥 Step 3: Combine Millet & Jaggery
- Add the jaggery syrup to the cooked millet.
- Simmer for 5–7 minutes on low flame until the flavors blend.
🌿 Step 4: Add Coconut Milk & Flavor
- Stir in coconut milk slowly, mixing gently.
- Add cardamom powder for a fragrant aroma.
- Cook for another 5 minutes, ensuring it does not boil vigorously to avoid splitting the coconut milk.
🥜 Step 5: Garnish
- In a small pan, heat ghee and fry cashews and raisins until golden.
- Pour over the payasam just before serving.
✨ Optional: You can add a few saffron strands soaked in warm milk for extra aroma and color.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm for a comforting dessert experience 🍵
- Refrigerate and enjoy chilled as a refreshing sweet treat 🧊
- Perfect for festivals like Diwali, Onam, or Pongal 🎉
- Pair with light snacks or Indian savory meals for a balanced festive menu
Kodo Millet Payasam works beautifully as a healthy dessert option for kids, adults, and even guests looking for guilt-free indulgence.
💡 Tips & Tricks
✨ Creamy texture: Stir gently while adding coconut milk to maintain creaminess.
✨ Sweetness: Adjust jaggery quantity according to taste.
✨ Nutritious boost: Add chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios for crunch.
✨ Flavor twist: Lightly roast millet before cooking to enhance its nutty flavor.
✨ Vegan: Use coconut milk and ghee for a fully plant-based dessert. 🌱
🧠 Nutritional Benefits
| Nutrient | Approx. Value (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Calcium | 30 mg |
| Fat | 7 g |
✅ High in fiber and protein – aids digestion and satiety
✅ Rich in minerals like iron and calcium
✅ Gluten-free, low GI dessert suitable for diabetics
✅ Healthy alternative to rice-based payasam
🌤️ When to Enjoy
Kodo Millet Payasam is perfect for:
- 🎉 Festivals and celebrations – healthy and traditional
- 🌅 Breakfast or brunch – light, sweet start to the day
- 🌇 Evening dessert – with a cup of tea or coffee 🍵
- 🥗 After a hearty meal – for digestion-friendly indulgence
❤️ Conclusion
Kodo Millet Payasam proves that traditional Indian desserts can be both indulgent and healthy. 🌾💛
Its creamy texture, naturally sweetened flavor, and subtle cardamom aroma make it irresistible for all ages. By using Kodo Millet, you’re adding a nutritional punch to a timeless classic, making it suitable for modern, health-conscious lifestyles.
So go ahead — prepare this golden, aromatic dessert, share it with your loved ones, and enjoy every spoonful of wholesome, millet-powered sweetness! 🍮✨