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Recipe: Pearl Millet (Bajra) Chole Chawal

  • Recipe: Pearl Millet (Bajra) Chole Chawal
BajraBlogdinnerlunchrecipies
by saveadrop.org
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Pearl Millet (Bajra) Chole Chawal: A Protein-Packed Millet Dish

This flavorful dish combines protein-rich chickpeas with nutritious pearl millet (bajra) and aromatic spices for a satisfying and wholesome meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup pearl millet (bajra), rinsed
  • 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
  • Cooked basmati rice (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the chickpeas: In a large pot, cover the soaked chickpeas with fresh water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until tender. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the pearl millet: In a separate pot, rinse the pearl millet again. Add 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the millet is cooked through and fluffy. Set aside.
  3. Sauté the aromatics: In a large pan or skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for an additional minute.
  4. Add tomatoes and spices: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices. Season with coriander powder, turmeric powder, chili powder, and garam masala. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  5. Combine and simmer: Add the cooked chickpeas and cooked pearl millet to the pan with the tomato mixture. Stir gently to combine and heat through for a few minutes. Season with salt to taste.
  6. Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro (optional) and serve hot with cooked basmati rice (optional) for a complete meal.

Tips:

  • For a richer flavor, substitute ghee for vegetable oil.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables to the dish, such as chopped bell peppers, carrots, or green peas.
  • If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend the cooked tomatoes before adding them to the pan.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days