During fasting comes a very common question in mind ‘What to eat ?’ that can keep you feel full and provide you with all the essential nutrients even during fasting, unlike all other options like potatoes, veggies, fruits, and dry fruits which either provide you with nutrients or make you full.
But there is something that can provide you both during fasting, yes you guessed it right it’s MILLETS! Barnyard rice, also known as Samak, or Samvat rice, is commonly consumed during fasting periods in certain cultures and religious practices. There are a few reasons why barnyard rice is preferred during fasting:
Did you know?
The indigenous, gluten-free sama (barnyard millet) has more than 10 percent protein while kuttu (buckwheat millet) provides a good dose of calcium, iron, vitamin B6, and magnesium
Source: said by plant-based expert Sanjay Sethi.
Image source: Google
Here are a few reasons why can you eat Barnyard (Samak) rice during your fasts.
- Permissible during fasting:- Barnyard rice is not a cereal grain like wheat or rice, which are typically avoided during fasting. Barnyard rice, however, is considered permissible and is allowed to be consumed during fasting periods. It is considered a fasting-friendly grain.
- Easily digestible:- It can be easily digested and it also promotes good gut health. It also gives a feeling of fullness which helps during fasting. Some people find that barnyard rice is easier to digest compared to other grains. Fasting can sometimes affect the digestive system, and consuming easily digestible foods like barnyard rice may help prevent discomfort or digestive issues.
- Gluten-free:– Barnyard rice is gluten-free, making it suitable for individuals who follow gluten-free diets or have gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
- Nutritional benefits:- It contains essential nutrients like carbohydrates, fiber, and small amounts of protein, along with minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. It can provide energy and help sustain individuals during the fasting period when they may not be consuming their regular diet.
- Versatility: Barnyard rice can be cooked in various ways, including as a simple grain, pulao, or khichdi. Its versatility allows individuals to prepare it according to their preferences and add flavors and spices that are permissible during fasting.
- Traditional significance:- In many cultures, certain foods are associated with religious or traditional practices. Barnyard rice has a historical and cultural significance in some regions, where it has been traditionally used during fasting periods as part of religious rituals and celebrations.
Wondering how to cook millet? or how to eat barnyard rice or what recipes to follow? Don’t worry we have come up with simple recipes that you can easily cook this time during Navratri, and if you are still confused about millets, or its type, keep on reading we have got you!
Barnyard Millet Unpolished Rice Recipes:-
There might be numerous recipes over the internet on barnyard rice, but we have come up with some delicious, healthy recipes that are not only simple to make but also have an abundance of benefits. Here are a few examples:
1. Samvat/Samak Rice Khichdi:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup barnyard rice (Samvat rice)
- 1/2 cup split green gram (moong dal)
- 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 green chili, slit
- Rock salt (sendha namak) to taste
- Water as needed
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Wash the barnyard rice and split green gram (moong dal) together and soak them for 15-20 minutes.
- Heat ghee in a pressure cooker and add cumin seeds, grated ginger, and green chili. Sauté for a minute.
- Add the soaked rice and dal mixture, along with rock salt. Mix well.
- Add enough water (about 2 cups) to cook the khichdi to your desired consistency.
- Close the pressure cooker and cook on medium heat for about 3-4 whistles or until the rice and dal are cooked and well combined.
- Once the pressure is released, open the cooker and fluff the khichdi with a fork.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.
2. Sama Rice Pulao:
Ingredients:-
- 1 cup barnyard rice (Samvat rice)
- 1 tablespoon ghee
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2-3 cloves
- 1/2 cup chopped mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, etc.)
- Rock salt (sendha namak) to taste
- Water as needed
- Chopped coriander leaves for garnish
Instruction:-
- Wash the barnyard rice and soak it for 15-20 minutes.
- Heat ghee in a pan and add cumin seeds, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Sauté for a minute.
- Add the chopped mixed vegetables and sauté for a few minutes until they are slightly tender.
- Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pan. Mix well to coat the rice with the spices.
- Add rock salt and enough water (approximately 2 cups) to cook the rice.
- Cover the pan and cook on low heat until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with chopped coriander leaves, and serve hot.
3. Samai Rice Kheer:
Ingredients:-
- 1/2 cup barnyard rice (Samvat rice)
- 4 cups milk
- 1/4 cup jaggery
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- Chopped nuts for garnish
Instructions:-
- Wash the barnyard rice and soak it for 15-20 minutes.
- In a large pot, bring the milk to a boil.
- Drain the soaked rice and add it to the boiling milk. Cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the rice is cooked and the kheer thickens.
- Add jaggery and cardamom powder. Mix well until the jaggery dissolves.
- Continue cooking for a few more minutes until the kheer reaches your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Garnish with chopped nuts and serve warm or chilled.
Did you make this recipe? or want to share some new recipes of yours with us, comment below or connect with us on our Instagram.
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