Barnyard Millet Pulao
A flavorful and healthy one-pot dish made with barnyard millet, a nutritious grain, along with a medley of vegetables and aromatic whole spices.
Ingredients
- 1 cup barnyard millet, rinsed
- 1.5 cups water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon ghee (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 small cinnamon stick
- 2 cloves
- 2 green cardamoms
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, etc.), chopped
- 1 slit green chili (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- Salt to taste
- Chopped fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, rinse the barnyard millet until the water runs clear. Soak for 15-30 minutes (optional, but helps reduce cooking time).
- Heat oil and ghee (if using) in a pressure cooker or pot. Add the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cloves, and cardamoms. Splutter for a few seconds until fragrant.
- Add cumin seeds and let them crackle. Then, add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent.
- Add green chili (if using) and ginger-garlic paste. Saute for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped vegetables and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt to taste. Stir well to coat the vegetables.
- Add the rinsed barnyard millet and stir to combine.
- Pour in the water (adjust slightly depending on your desired consistency – for a drier pulao, use 1.25 cups water).
- Close the pressure cooker lid and cook for 2 whistles on medium heat. Then, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. Alternatively, cook in a pot with a tightly fitted lid for 20-25 minutes, or until the millet is cooked through and the water is absorbed.
- Once the pressure is released, fluff the rice gently with a fork.
- Garnish with chopped fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.
Tips
- You can adjust the vegetables to your preference. Other options include chopped bell peppers, cauliflower florets, or corn kernels.
- For a richer flavor, you can add a fried cashew or raisin garnish.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of water or broth.
Enjoy this delicious and nutritious Barnyard Millet Pulao!