7 Different Types of Millets and Their Nutritional Benefits

What are Millets?

Millets are small-seeded, annual grasses that grow in warmer climates and tropical regions worldwide. Millets have been cultivated for thousands of years, with some varieties dating back as far as 4000 BC. While there are dozens of different types of millet, not many people know about their nutritional benefits—or how to identify them! Here are seven different kinds of millet and their nutritional benefits. They're also easy to prepare, and you can include them in many other dishes, from cereal to bread to soups!

What's the hype about Millets?

Millet is a collective name given to a variety of coarse grains. It is typically grown in areas without competing with corn or wheat for nutrients, water, or sunlight. This makes it a more sustainable crop, as well as a more nutritious one.

Millet is also an ancient grain eaten by people worldwide for centuries - from Africa to Europe to Asia - making it one of the oldest crops in the world. The health benefits of millet are remarkable; however, because this ancient grain is so underutilized in Western cuisine, most people don't know about them.

Types of Millets

1. Prakruthi Organic Jowar Millet

Jowar is a gluten-free and protein-rich millet now touted as the next superfood. The nutrient-dense grain has a low glycemic index, so it helps regulate blood sugar levels. Jowar is also rich in iron, calcium, and other important minerals and vitamins for energy metabolism. With these qualities, it's no wonder jowar millet is now a favorite among health enthusiasts.

2. Prakruthi Organic Bajra (Pearl) Millet

Bajra is the traditional Hindi name for the millet species. It is a small, round grain that has a light golden color. Bajra is an excellent source of protein, complex carbohydrates, fiber, iron, and calcium. It also provides vitamin B1 (thiamine), vitamin B2 (riboflavin) and vitamin B3 (niacin). In addition to being a tasty food source for humans, bajra can also be used in animal feed because it is high in protein.

3. Prakruthi Organic Ragi (Finger) Millet

Ragi, or in other words say that finger millet. It is one of the most nutritious and healthy cereals. It is a staple food crop in some regions of India and has been eaten for centuries. Ragi is a source of iron, protein, calcium, phosphorus, and B vitamins. Ragi can be made into various dishes, including porridge, pancakes, and flatbreads.

4. Prakruthi Organic Kodo Millet

Kodo millet is loaded with protein and dietary fiber and has an exceptional amount of antioxidants. This makes it a great addition to your diet and an excellent choice for those looking to eat healthier. More than just being a nutritious addition, Kodo millet can also be used as a replacement for gluten-free flour. It is also an excellent option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease when combined with other grains like brown rice and quinoa. Although not as popular as other grains like rice or quinoa, Kodo millet is worth learning about its many benefits. It can be found in most grocery stores and offers many health benefits that make it worth adding to your diet regularly.

5. Prakruthi Organic Foxtail Millet

Foxtail millet is a tiny seed with gentle yellow skin miming yellow mustard seeds. It has a flavor of nutty and can be cooked in various ways. It is a common type of millet. Foxtail millet packs a punch regarding health benefits: it's high in protein, folate, manganese, magnesium, niacin, phosphorus, and zinc.

6. Prakruthi Organic Little Millet

Millet is a very healthy food. It is rich in B vitamins, especially niacin, B6, and folic acid. The magnesium content in millet helps improve heart health. The most common types of millet are pearl millet, sorghum (jowar) millet, finger millet (ragi), Kodo millet (bajra), and foxtail millet. There are also little millets that have smaller grains than other grain varieties, like pearl millet. These are called little because they have small grains that resemble little fingers.

7. Prakruthi Organic Barnyard Millet

Barnyard Millet is a tiny white-shaped seed that grows naturally in the wild. This millet is an excellent option for those with gluten intolerance because it is naturally gluten-free. Barnyard Millet contains Vitamins A, B1, B2, D, E, and K, which make it an excellent food for general health. This millet can be a laxative to help soothe digestive problems such as constipation or diarrhea.

Benefits of Millet

Organic millet is a wonderfully tasty grain. Also known as Proso Millet, it is rich in B vitamins, especially niacin, B6 and folic acid, calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, and zinc. 5 benefits of millets are:

1) Promotes healthy hair growth

2) Anti-inflammatory effects

3) Supports diabetes management

4) A whole grain for heart health

5) Bowel regularity/supports elimination

How to Cook Perfect Millet?

Millet is an excellent alternative to rice or quinoa for those looking for an easier-to-digest grain. It's also gluten-free, making it perfect for those with gluten sensitivities. Millet is often called the miracle grain because it contains nine essential amino acids and the three major B vitamins our bodies need to function optimally. The best part? It's delicious! To make this healthy side dish, follow these simple steps:

1) Pour 2 cups water into a pot over high heat. Bring to a boil.

2) Add 1 cup millet grains, reduce heat to low, cover pot, and wait for 15 minutes or until cooked through but still chewy in texture.

Conclusion

The variety in millet flavors, textures, and shapes is attractive. The health benefits of millet make it a nutritious food worth consuming. Enjoying a variety of millets will be something to look forward to.