Millet Pancake: A Healthy and Tasty Breakfast Option

Millet, a nutritious ancient grain, is gaining recognition for its health benefits and versatility in cooking. One of the delightful ways to incorporate millet in your diet is through millet pancakes. This article will guide you through creating your own millet pancake recipe using Naario's 9 in 1 flour mix as a key ingredient.

What is Millet?

Millet is a term used to denote several types of small-seeded grains that have been consumed worldwide for thousands of years. They are rich in nutrients like magnesium, phosphorous, iron, calcium, B-vitamins, and dietary fiber. Consuming millet can provide numerous health benefits including improving digestion, reducing heart disease risk, and managing diabetes.

Why Millet Pancakes?

Millet pancakes are a delicious and healthy way to start your day. They are gluten-free, making them a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities. The pancakes are spongy, soft, and retain their softness for a good while after being cooked. They are also versatile enough to be paired with either sweet or savory toppings.

Millet Pancake Ingredients

The ingredients for making millet pancakes are simple and easily available. Here's what you'll need:

• 1 cup Naario's 9 in 1 flour mix
• 1/2 cup milk (you can substitute with any nut milk of choice)
• 1 egg (you can skip this as well)
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp sugar (Naario's Organic Jaggery Powder can be a healthier option)
• A pinch of cinnamon
• A pinch of salt
• Butter or regular oil for cooking

Cooking Millet Pancakes

The process of making millet pancakes is straightforward and similar to making traditional pancakes. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Mix the dry ingredients in a bowl: Naario's 9 in 1 flour mix, salt, baking powder, cinnamon, and sugar/Naario's Organic Jaggery Powder.
2. Add the milk and egg to the dry mix.
3. Mix gently until combined.
4. Heat a pan and spread some butter or oil.
5. Pour about 1/4 cup of the batter onto the pan and let it spread to form a thick circle.
6. Cook on both sides until golden brown, adding more butter or oil as needed.
7. Serve warm with your choice of toppings.

Serving Suggestions for Millet Pancakes

The beauty of millet pancakes lies in their versatility. They can be served in a variety of ways to suit different tastes and dietary preferences:

• Sweet option: Top with fresh fruits like bananas and berries, and drizzle with honey or maple syrup.
• Savory option: Top with smoked salmon, sour cream or Greek yogurt, and some fresh dill.
• Vegan option: Replace the egg with a flax egg (2 tablespoons ground flax seed mixed with 5 tablespoons water), and use a dairy-free milk substitute.

Tips for Perfect Millet Pancakes

Here are some tips to help you make perfect millet pancakes every time:

• Avoid overmixing the batter. A few lumps and pockets of flour left are totally fine, as they'll cook out and go unnoticed after cooking.
• Heat the pan properly before adding the batter. This will form a nice crust on the outside of the pancake and keep it from spreading too much.
• If you prefer thicker, fluffier pancakes, you can add a bit of xanthan gum to the batter. If you like thinner pancakes, you can leave it out.

Health Benefits of Millet Pancakes

Millet pancakes are not just delicious but also packed with health benefits. They are:

• Gluten-free: Suitable for people with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
• High in fiber: The high fiber content in millet aids in digestion and keeps you satiated for longer, helping in weight management.
• Rich in nutrients: Millet is a good source of vitamins and minerals, providing essential nutrients to your body.

Storing and Reheating Millet Pancakes

Millet pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 400F until heated through.

Conclusion

Millet pancakes are a wholesome and tasty breakfast option that can be tailored to suit various taste preferences. They are simple to prepare and packed with nutrients, making them a great choice for a healthy start to your day. Try this millet pancake recipe and start enjoying the benefits of this ancient grain.