How to Cook Millets Like Rice: Kangni (Foxtail), Kodo and Sama (Video)

Transcript

One cup millet, two cups water, ten minutes rest, fluffy as rice?

One cup millet, two cups water, ten minutes rest, fluffy as rice?

Ever wondered if millet can turn out as fluffy as rice? Let’s find out.

At a glance

First, rinse the grains a few times, rubbing them between your palms. You can soak them if you like, then let them rest ten minutes with the lid on.

Which millets cook like chawal?

The tiny grains, kangni, kodo, little millet and barnyard millet, behave like rice. They cook fast, stay separate, and even soften a bit of the natural phytic acid.

Water ratio and timing

For each millet, use the same cup for grain and water. Adjust the water if you want a softer texture, or keep it low for a fluffy pulao.

How to cook millets like rice

Start by rinsing a cup of kangni, then give it a quick dry roast in a teaspoon of ghee if you like. Add two and a half cups of water and a pinch of salt, bring to a boil, stir once, cover tightly and turn the flame to its lowest. Let it rest ten minutes.

Millet too mushy or still raw? Quick fixes

If it’s mushy, spread it out for a few minutes and use it in a khichdi or cutlets. For hard centres, sprinkle a few tablespoons of hot water, cover and steam for five minutes. If the bottom burns, gently lift the top and switch to a heavier pot.

Three things to cook with millet

Try a kangni pulao with spices and veggies, a comforting millet khichdi with moong dal, or a simple upma flavored with mustard seeds and curry leaves.

Kodo that looks dark or smells musty goes in the bin, not the pot.

Buying and storing millets

Look for de-husked millets. Unpolished versions keep the bran for extra fiber but need a couple more minutes to cook. Polished millets are quicker and last longer. Never use bird-seed grade millet for your kitchen.

Worth knowing first

If you have diabetes, keep the millet portion the same as the rice you’d replace. Those with kidney issues should check potassium and phosphorus with a doctor. Choose certified gluten-free packs if you have celiac, and serve kids soft and moist.

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Read the full guide

For the full guide, with every detail and answers to common questions, visit thecareonline.com. You'll find more short videos like this one on our YouTube channel. This is general information, not medical advice, so check with your doctor about your own situation.