Thinai / Foxtail Millet Upma


Thinai, also known as Foxtail Millet, is one of the oldest cultivated grains and has been a staple in Indian diets for centuries. With a renewed focus on healthy eating, millets are making a strong comeback in modern kitchens. Thinai is gluten-free, rich in dietary fiber, and packed with essential nutrients like iron, calcium, and protein. Thinai Upma is a wholesome and tasty dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, dinner, or even as a light lunch. Its nutty flavor and hearty texture make it a delightful and filling meal, perfect for those looking to incorporate healthy grains into their diet without compromising on taste. 

Ingredients:

  • Thinai / Foxtail Millet - 1 cup
  • Onion - 1 (chopped finely)
  • Green Chillies - 2 or 3 (Chopped finely)
  • Tomato - 1 (Chopped finely)
  • Oil - 2 tsps.
  • Mustard Seeds - 1 tsp.
  • Ured Dhal - 1 tsp.
  • Channa Dhal - 1 tsp.
  • Curry Leaves - a handful
  • Water - 3 cups
  • Salt - 1 tsp. or as needed

Method:

  • Soak foxtail millet for 10 minutes in 1 cup of water.
  • After 10 minutes, heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds.
  • When it splutters, add ured and channa dhals together and saute for a minute.
  • Add curry leaves and fry for a second.
  • Now add green chillies and fry for half a minute and the then add chopped onions and fry.
  • When the onions become transparent add finely chopped tomato and fry till it becomes mushy.
  • Now add 2 cups of water (as we have already used 1 cup to soak) and salt and bring it to boil.
  • When it boils, add the soaked millet with water and mix well.
  • Keep in simmer and close with a lid and cook till it becomes dry.
  • Foxtail millet takes little time to cook.
  • When cooked, switch of the stove and mix well and serve.

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