Are you looking for a nutritious and flavorful addition to your meal repertoire? Look no further than bajra, also known as pearl millet! This ancient grain has been a staple in Indian cuisine for centuries, and its nutty flavor and high nutritional value make it an excellent choice for health-conscious cooks. From savory dishes like Bajra Roti with Ghee and Bajra Pulao with Mixed Veggies to sweet treats like Bajra Ladoo with Nuts and Bajra Kheer with Cardamom, there’s a bajra recipe out there for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious and healthy bajra recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen.
Bajra Roti with Ghee
This recipe is a traditional Indian delight that combines the nutty flavor of bajra (pearl millet) flour with the richness of ghee. Bajra rotis are soft, slightly sweet flatbreads that pair perfectly with a variety of accompaniments.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra (pearl millet) flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Ghee or oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the bajra flour and salt.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water to form a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and pliable.
3. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
5. Brush with ghee or oil, then fold in half and press gently to form a triangle or a circle shape.
6. Cook on a non-stick skillet or tava over medium heat for 30-45 seconds per side, until the rotis are golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per batch
Bajra Khichdi with Vegetables
Khichdi is a popular Indian dish made from a mixture of lentils and rice. This recipe adds the nutritious and fiber-rich pearl millet (bajra) to create a wholesome meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl millet
– 1/2 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
– 1 tomato, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Rinse the millet and lentils separately and soak them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and cook the millet and lentils together in a pressure cooker with 4 cups of water until they are mushy.
3. Heat oil in a pan, add cumin seeds, onion, garlic, carrot, potato, and tomato. Saute until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the cooked millet-lentil mixture to the pan and mix well.
5. Season with salt and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Bajra Porridge with Jaggery
Start your day with a nutritious and flavorful porridge made from millets, jaggery, and spices. This traditional Indian recipe is a great way to boost energy and satisfy your hunger.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra (pearl millet)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon jaggery powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: ghee or milk for added richness
Instructions:
1. Rinse the bajra and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and wash the soaked bajra thoroughly.
3. In a pot, combine the bajra, 2 cups of fresh water, jaggery powder, cardamom powder, and salt.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the porridge thickens slightly.
5. Serve hot, garnished with a dollop of ghee or milk if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bajra Upma with Fresh Herbs
Start your day with a nutritious and flavorful breakfast bowl, packed with the goodness of bajra (millet) and fresh herbs. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy morning meal that’s also gluten-free and vegan-friendly.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra flour
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Chopped green chilies (optional)
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the water in a pot and bring to a boil.
2. Add the bajra flour, salt, and ghee or oil. Stir well to combine.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
4. Stir in chopped cilantro, mint leaves, and green chilies (if using).
5. Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Bajra Dosa with Coconut Chutney
The Bajra Dosa is a popular Indian dish made from pearl millet flour, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. Paired with a creamy coconut chutney, this recipe offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Ingredients:
For the Bajra Dosa:
– 1 cup pearl millet flour (bajra)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
For the Coconut Chutney:
– 1 cup grated coconut
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 green chili, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together bajra flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water to form a smooth batter.
3. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
4. Pour 1/4 cup of the batter onto the pan and spread evenly.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the dosa is golden brown.
6. Repeat with remaining batter.
For the Coconut Chutney:
1. Blend all ingredients together in a blender until smooth.
2. Adjust seasoning as needed.
3. Serve with Bajra Dosa.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bajra Pulao with Mixed Veggies
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of bajra (pearl millet) with a medley of mixed vegetables, resulting in a nutritious and delicious pulao. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra (pearl millet)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, cauliflower, corn)
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the bajra and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the ghee or oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated carrot. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the mixed vegetables, soaked bajra, and salt. Mix well to combine.
5. Add 2 cups of water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the bajra is cooked.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Bajra Pancakes with Honey
Start your day with a flavorful and nutritious breakfast using bajra, a type of millet that’s high in fiber and protein. These pancakes are easy to make and pair perfectly with a drizzle of honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Butter or ghee for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together bajra flour, oats, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add in water to form a smooth batter.
3. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Grease with butter or ghee.
4. Pour 1/4 cup of the batter onto the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface.
5. Flip and cook for another minute.
6. Serve warm with a drizzle of honey.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes (depending on the number of pancakes)
Bajra Salad with Lemon Dressing
This salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring millets (bajra) tossed with roasted vegetables, herbs, and a zesty lemon dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra (millet)
– 2 cups mixed roasted vegetables (such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and green beans)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the bajra and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast the mixed vegetables until tender, about 20-25 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, combine the drained bajra, roasted vegetables, and chopped cilantro.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil. Season with salt to taste.
5. Pour the dressing over the bajra mixture and toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (roasting vegetables) + prep time
Bajra Soup with Spices
Bajra soup, also known as pearl millet soup, is a popular dish in Indian cuisine, particularly during the winter months. This hearty and comforting recipe combines the nutty flavor of bajra with aromatic spices to create a soothing and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl millet (bajra)
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 inch ginger, grated
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the bajra and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and grind into a smooth paste.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir well.
4. Add 2 cups of water and the bajra paste to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup thickens slightly.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Bajra Ladoo with Nuts
This traditional Indian sweet dish is made with millets, nuts, and spices, perfect for special occasions or as a healthy snack. Bajra Ladoos are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, packed with flavor and nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra (pearl millet)
– 1/2 cup ghee
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds or pistachios)
– 1 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Roast the bajra in a pan until fragrant and lightly browned.
2. Grind the roasted bajra into a fine flour.
3. Mix together the ghee, powdered sugar, nuts, cardamom powder, and salt.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix well.
5. Shape into small balls (ladoos) and flatten slightly.
6. Cook on medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Cool and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bajra Kheer with Cardamom
Bajra kheer is a creamy and comforting dessert made from pearl millet, milk, and cardamom. This traditional Indian sweet dish is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl millet (bajra)
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Chopped nuts or dried fruits for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the pearl millet and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the water and cook the millet in 2 cups of fresh water until it’s soft and mushy.
3. In a large saucepan, combine the cooked millet, milk, sugar, and ground cardamom. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency.
4. Remove from heat and stir in ghee or oil.
5. Let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruits, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bajra Paratha with Pickle
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of pearl millet (bajra) flatbread with a tangy and spicy pickle, making for a satisfying snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pearl millet flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– For the pickle:
+ 1 cup finely chopped cucumber
+ 1 cup finely chopped tomato
+ 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
+ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
+ Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Mix flour and salt. Gradually add water to form a dough.
2. Knead for 5 minutes and rest for 30 minutes.
3. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
5. Fry in hot oil until golden brown, about 1 minute per side.
6. For the pickle, combine all ingredients in a bowl. Mix well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (10-12 minutes for paratha, 5-7 minutes for pickle)
Bajra Dhokla with Green Chutney
Bajra dhokla is a popular Gujarati dish made from pearl millet flour, yogurt, and spices. This recipe combines the traditional bajra dhokla with a tangy green chutney, perfect for a quick snack or meal.
Ingredients:
For Bajra Dhokla:
– 1 cup pearl millet flour (bajra)
– 1/2 cup curd
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– Salt, to taste
– Water, as needed
For Green Chutney:
– 1 cup fresh coriander leaves
– 1/2 cup green chilies
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
Instructions:
1. Mix bajra flour, curd, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
2. Gradually add water to form a thick batter.
3. Pour the batter into greased molds or plates.
4. Steam for 15-20 minutes or until firm.
5. For green chutney, blend all ingredients together.
6. Serve bajra dhokla with green chutney and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Bajra Idli with Sambar
Idlis are a staple breakfast food in South Indian cuisine, and adding the nutty flavor of bajra (millet) takes it to another level. This recipe combines the goodness of idlis with the flavorful sambar, making for a satisfying morning meal.
Ingredients:
For the Idlis:
– 1 cup bajra flour
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
For the Sambar:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 1 cup vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, and peas)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sambar powder
– Salt, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Mix the bajra flour, water, salt, and baking soda to form a thick batter.
2. Steam the idlis for 10-12 minutes or until they are cooked through.
3. In a pan, sauté the onion, garlic, and vegetables until tender.
4. Add the lentils, sambar powder, and salt. Cook until the lentils are mushy.
5. Serve the idlis with the hot sambar.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bajra Cookies with Oats
These chewy cookies are made with bajra (millet) flour, a nutritious and gluten-free option. Paired with rolled oats, they make for a delicious and healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together bajra flour, oats, and sugar.
3. Add softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Bajra Chikki with Sesame Seeds
Bajra chikki is a popular Indian snack made from pearl millet flour, sugar, and sesame seeds. This recipe adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the classic sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl millet flour (bajra)
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– Chopped nuts or dried fruits (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a pan, combine the bajra flour, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns golden brown.
2. Remove from heat and add the ghee or oil. Stir well to combine.
3. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then knead it into a dough-like consistency.
4. Divide the dough into small portions and shape into desired shapes (e.g., squares or bars).
5. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top of each piece and press gently to adhere.
6. Serve as is or garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruits.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bajra Tikki with Mint Yogurt Dip
Experience the delightful fusion of Indian flavors with this simple recipe for Bajra Tikki, crispy and flavorful patties made from pearl millet flour, served with a refreshing Mint Yogurt Dip.
Ingredients:
For the Bajra Tikki:
– 1 cup pearl millet flour
– 1/2 cup boiled potatoes, mashed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Mint Yogurt Dip:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Mix together pearl millet flour, mashed potatoes, cilantro, cumin powder, and salt.
2. Add lemon juice and mix well.
3. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions and shape each portion into a patty.
4. Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
5. For the dip, combine yogurt, mint leaves, honey, and salt. Mix well.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your crispy Bajra Tikki with a dollop of refreshing Mint Yogurt Dip!
Bajra Bread with Herbs
In this recipe, we combine the nutty flavor of bajra (pearl millet) with the freshness of herbs to create a delicious and healthy flatbread perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 3 tablespoons lukewarm water
– Chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, cilantro, or basil)
– Optional: garlic powder or grated ginger for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine bajra flour and salt.
2. Gradually add olive oil and lukewarm water to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions.
5. Shape each portion into a ball and flatten slightly into disks.
6. Place chopped herbs on one half of each disk, then fold the other half over to form a triangle or circle shape.
7. Cook on a non-stick skillet or griddle for 30-45 seconds on each side, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes per side
Summary
Discover the rich flavors and health benefits of bajra, also known as pearl millet. This article presents 18 delicious and nutritious recipes that showcase the versatility of bajra in various dishes. From classic Indian breakfast options like roti and dosa to healthy snacks like pancakes and cookies, there’s something for everyone. Explore international twists on traditional recipes, such as Mediterranean-inspired salads and soups. Whether you’re a foodie looking to try new flavors or seeking healthier meal ideas, this collection of bajra recipes is sure to inspire your culinary creativity.
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