How To Cook Perfect Puffed Millets

Millet is an incredibly versatile grain that has been used in cooking for thousands of years, but it’s easy to make mistakes when creating a dish with millet. If you want to learn how to make perfect millet every single time, then keep reading!

In this blog post, we’ll be walking through the entire process step-by-step — from rinsing your grain all the way through fluffing and serving — so you can create delicious recipes at home using this ancient superfood.

By mastering these techniques during our journey together, you’ll be able to cook amazing dishes for yourself or your family that are healthy, nutritious, and, most importantly, delicious!

What is Millet and Why You Should Be Eating It

Millet is a small-grained cereal that is gaining popularity in the health food industry. Originating from ancient civilizations in Africa and Asia, millet is a versatile and nutrient-dense grain that can be used in various dishes.

Millet is high in fibre and protein, making it a great choice for those looking to boost their nutritional intake. Additionally, consuming millet can improve gut health and help regulate blood sugar levels, which makes it an ideal addition to anyone’s diet.

By incorporating millet into your meals, you can experience all the incredible health benefits that this grain has to offer. So why not switch up your usual grain choices and try out this healthy and delicious alternative? Your body and taste buds will thank you!

Multiple Ways to Cook Puffed Millet

If you’re looking for a versatile and nutritious grain to add to your meals, look no further than millet. Here are five different methods for cooking millet that will inspire you to try out this delicious and healthy grain in your next meal.

1. Boiling on the Stovetop: Cook millet on the stovetop in boiling water, similar to cooking rice. Use a 2:1 water-to-millet ratio, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and enjoy as a side dish, or add to salads or soups.
   
2. Using a Rice Cooker: Cooking millet in a rice cooker is quick and easy, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Use the same 2:1 water-to-millet ratio and cook on the standard rice setting. For added flavour, swap out some of the water for broth or coconut milk, and add in spices like turmeric or cumin.
   
3. Baking in the Oven: For a unique and flavourful twist on millet, try baking it in the oven. Mix it with vegetables and spices of your choice, such as onion, garlic, carrots, and cumin. Spread the mixture in a baking dish, add water, then bake at 375°F for 35-40 minutes, or until the millet is tender and the vegetables are roasted to perfection.
   
4. Cooking in a Pressure Cooker: If you have a pressure cooker, cooking puffed millet is a breeze. Use the same 2:1 water-to-millet ratio and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, followed by a natural release. The result is a perfectly fluffy millet that’s ready to be added to any meal.
   
5. Toasting: Yes, you read that right- puffed millet can be toasted! Pre-cook the millet using one of the above methods, then marinate it in your favourite dressing or sauce. Toast on a dry frying pan for a few minutes on each side until crispy and lightly charred, then serve with grilled vegetables for a healthy and delicious meal.
   

So there you have it – five different methods for cooking millet that are sure to inspire you to try out this versatile and delicious grain. Experiment with different flavour combinations and enjoy the many health benefits that puffed millet has to offer!

Storage – Keep the Grain Fresh and Ready for Use!

Proper storage and preparation of cooked millet is crucial to preserve its nutritive value and to avoid bacterial contamination. It is recommended to store cooked millet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for no longer than three to five days.

To reheat cooked millet, transfer the desired amount into a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel to avoid it from drying out. Reheat on high heat for around 30-60 seconds per 1 cup of millet, stirring occasionally, until it is sufficiently heated throughout.

It’s also essential to reheat the millet at the right temperature to avoid the growth of bacteria. Avoid reheating the millet more than once, as it may lead to bacterial contamination.

Ingredients

• 1 Cup Millet
• 2 Cup Water (or stock)
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• Salt and Pepper (to season)

How to cook puffed millet

Rinse the millet using a colander. Place the millet, oil, salt, pepper and water in a pan and bring to a boil for a few minutes, then simmer for 15 minutes or until all the water is absorbed. Set aside for 5 – 10 minutes, then fluff up with a fork.

Benefits of Buying Organic Puffed Millet

• A 100% Organic Ingredient
• Gluten-Free!
• It can be enjoyed as part of a healthy breakfast or added to several baking recipes which include grains or puffed rice
• High in natural protein and fibre, it is also packed with great vitamins and minerals.
• Suitable for vegans and vegetarians
• A great alternative to rice and quinoa.

Recipe Ideas – Simple Millet Dishes

Here are a few millet recipes to get you started.

Millet and Vegetable Stir-fry

Ingredients:

• 1 cup millet
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/2 cup peas
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

Instructions:

Cook the millet according to package instructions.

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

Add the sliced bell pepper, mushrooms, and snow peas, and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.

Add the garlic and ginger and cook for an additional minute.

Finally, add the cooked millet, soy sauce, and sesame oil and stir-fry for another 2 minutes.

Serve hot, and enjoy!

Millet and Spinach Stuffed Peppers

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers
• 1 cup millet
• 2 cups spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Optional extras – Mince meat and cheese

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F.

Cook the millet according to package instructions.

Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.

Add the spinach and sauté until wilted.

Finally, add the cooked millet, diced tomatoes, dried basil, and salt, and stir until well combined.

Stuff the mixture into the bell peppers and place them in a baking dish.

Cover with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the peppers are tender.

Millet and Avocado Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 cup millet
• 2 avocados, diced
• 1/2 chopped cucumber
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh Coriander
• 1 chopped red onion
• 3 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

Cook the millet according to package instructions.

In a large bowl, combine the cooked millet, diced avocados, chopped cucumber, chopped cilantro, and chopped red onion.

In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, and salt.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until well-coated.

Millet and Lentil Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 cup millet
• 1 cup dried lentils
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery ribs, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups vegetable stock

Instructions:

Cook the millet according to package instructions.

Rinse and drain the lentils.

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Finally, add the vegetable stock and lentils, and bring to a boil.

Reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the lentils are tender.

Add the cooked millet to the soup and stir to combine.

Millet and Apple Crumble

Ingredients:

• 1 cup millet flour
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 2 cups chopped apples
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 190C/375°F.

In a large bowl, combine the millet flour, rolled oats, and almond flour.

Add the melted coconut oil and maple syrup, and stir until well combined.

In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped apples and cinnamon.

Spread the apple mixture evenly in the bottom of a baking dish.

Sprinkle the millet mixture over the top of the apples.

Bake for 25-30 minutes until the crumble is golden brown.