Millet is a very nutritious grain, but it is not as popular as wheat or rye, because in many places its properties and multiple uses in the kitchen are not yet clear. Millet can be used in a variety of dishes and can even be included in the diet of celiacs (people intolerant to gluten) because it is a gluten-free food and has great advantages.
Millet history
This grain is believed to have originated in North Africa, especially Ethiopia, and has been consumed since prehistoric times. Millet is even mentioned in the Bible as an ingredient in unleavened bread. Today, it is still a very important staple in many countries in Africa.
Since ancient times, Xiaomi has also been widely consumed in Asia and India. In the Middle Ages, before the introduction of potatoes and corn, millet had become a staple food in Europe, especially in the countries of Eastern Europe. This delicious grain is popular for its nutritional content and alternatives to gluten and wheat.
How to choose and store?
It usually comes in the form of cereals, whole grains or puffed millet. It can be purchased by weight or if you want packaged. For celiac disease patients, it is recommended to consume packets of millet that have been packaged or marked gluten-free to ensure that they are not contaminated by gluten during processing.
Store millet in an airtight container in a cool, dry, dark place so that it can be stored for several months.
Nutritional properties
Although millet is used more as bird food, it is not just bird food. It is a delicious grain that can be used with a variety of foods. Like most cereals, millet can be used in all months of the year.
How to cook?
Like all grains, rinse well under running water before cooking and remove any dirt or residue you may find. After washing, add one serving of millet to two and a half servings of boiling water or broth. After the liquid boils, reduce the concentration, cover the pot and simmer for about 25 minutes. When cooked this way, the texture of millet is similar to that of rice. If you want it to be creamier, stir it frequently and add a little water from time to time.
To give the millet an almond flavor, you can roast the beans before boiling them. To do this, put the grains in a pot and heat them over medium heat, do not add anything else and stir frequently. When it is golden brown, add liquid and bring to a boil.
The benefits of millet for our health
Very suitable for those who are exhausted, such as high-level athletes or people who do physical exercise every day. Due to its iron content, it is highly recommended for pregnant women and women in full lactation. It is very useful for diabetics because it helps regulate blood sugar levels, while it does not contain gluten for celiac disease.
It contains high levels of antioxidants, which may mean that it helps us prevent cancer. Due to its high content of polyunsaturated fats, it is also increasingly used in diabetes products.
