Kodo Millet Pulao Recipe - Diabetic friendly & Gluten free

Kodo Millet Pulao Recipe - Diabetic friendly & Gluten free

Aromatic Kodo Millet Pulao: A Wholesome Ancient Grain Twist

Transform humble millet into a fragrant, nutritious one-pot wonder that's perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. This protein-rich, gluten-free pulao brings together the earthy goodness of ancient grains with aromatic Indian spices.

Prep Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 285 per serving

Kitchen Essentials

"Authentic Kodo Millet Pulao Recipe | Healthy Ancient Grain One-Pot Meal"

  • Heavy-bottomed pan or kadai
  • Mixer grinder
  • Measuring spoons
  • Sharp knife and cutting board

Ingredients

For the Grain Base

  • 1 cup Kodo millet (varagu/kodra), thoroughly rinsed
  • 2-3 cups water, divided

Fresh Produce

  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced into half-moons
  • 1 medium potato, diced into ½-inch cubes
  • 2 carrots, julienned
  • 10 green beans, french-cut
  • ½ capsicum (bell pepper), diced
  • 2 green chilies, finely minced
  • 1 inch ginger, freshly grated
  • 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
  • ¼ cup fresh coriander leaves, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup mint leaves, roughly torn (optional)

Aromatic Whole Spices

  • 2 whole cloves
  • 2 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
  • 2 small cinnamon sticks
  • 1 bay leaf
  • ½ tsp cumin seeds

Ground Spices & Seasonings

  • ¼ tsp garam masala
  • ½ tsp turmeric powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 3 tsp cooking oil or ghee

Chef's Notes

  • Soaking millet improves digestibility and reduces cooking time
  • For best results, use freshly ground spice paste
  • Allow the pulao to rest for 5 minutes before fluffing for perfect grain separation

"Traditional Indian Kodo Millet Pulao: A Step-by-Step Guide"

Instructions

  1. Prep the Millet:
    • Soak Kodo millet in cold water for 2 hours
    • Drain and set aside
  2. Make the Aromatic Paste (Masala Base):
    • Blend coriander, mint, ginger, garlic, cloves, and green chilies
    • Use minimal water to achieve a smooth, thick consistency
  3. Layer the Flavors:
    • Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan until shimmering
    • Temper with bay leaf, cumin seeds, cardamom, and cinnamon
    • Wait for spices to release their aroma (about 30 seconds)
  4. Build the Base:
    • Add sliced onions, sauté until golden and translucent (5-7 minutes)
    • Fold in the prepared aromatic paste
    • Cook until the raw aroma dissipates and oil begins to separate (3-4 minutes)
  5. Incorporate Vegetables:
    • Add diced vegetables
    • Sauté until vegetables are partially cooked (4-5 minutes)
    • Season with turmeric, salt, and garam masala
  6. Add the Millet:
    • Fold in drained Kodo millet
    • Stir gently to coat with spices
    • Pour in hot water (2 parts water to 1 part millet)
  7. Final Cooking:
    • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat
    • Cover and simmer for 5-6 minutes on medium-high
    • Reduce to low heat, cook for additional 5 minutes
    • Let rest, covered, for 5 minutes
  8. Finish & Serve:
    • Fluff gently with a fork
    • Garnish with fresh coriander
    • Serve hot with raita, papad, or a fresh garden salad

Pro Tips for cooking with kodo millet

  • Toast the millet for 2-3 minutes before cooking for a nuttier flavor
  • Add a touch of ghee at the end for extra richness
  • For a protein boost, add pan-roasted cashews or green peas
  • Adjust water quantity based on desired texture

Storage

Keeps well in an airtight container for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Reheat with a sprinkle of water to maintain moisture.

Nutrition Information

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 285
  • Protein: 8g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fat: 9g

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  • "Master the perfect Kodo Millet Pulao with our detailed recipe. Packed with vegetables, aromatic spices & protein. A healthy, gluten-free alternative to rice pulao."
  • "Learn how to make nutritious Kodo Millet Pulao in 30 minutes. Complete with pro tips, variations & storage guide. Perfect for healthy weeknight dinners!"
  • "Discover this ancient grain recipe for Kodo Millet Pulao. Healthy, protein-rich & gluten-free. Includes step-by-step photos & expert cooking tips."

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