As we participated in one of the local farmer’s markets yesterday, we had several questions in regards to millet. What is it? What can you use it for? Why is it good for me? Hopefully this article will clear up some of those questions for you.
The grain itself is produced predominantly in India and Africa and because it is so drought tolerant, has become a staple food in these regions. You can grind it into a flour to make flatbreads, you can brew it into beers, or cook it and make it into a porridge.
Millet has many of the same nutritional properties as wheat. However, millet is gluten free, so those with coeliac should have no problems with this wheat alternative. Because of this, you cannot make a typical bread unless you combine with other gluten products, but it does make an excellent flatbread. It is very high in vitamin B17 which makes it an excellent choice for fighting and preventing cancer.
To cook it, add a small amount of oil to your pot. Add the millet and gently “toast” the grain, being careful not to burn. Using roughly equal amounts of water to millet, add water, cover, and cook about 20 minutes or until the water has absorbed.
You can purchase millet at your local farmer’s market or health food store. Or, let us know, and we’d be happy to ship you a bag of any size. Questions? Leave us a comment!