Are you looking for a way to incorporate more nutrition and variety into your diet? Look no further than bajra flour, a nutrient-rich ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes. Bajra flour is made from pearl millet, which is high in fiber, protein, and various essential minerals like iron, calcium, and potassium. It’s also gluten-free, making it an excellent option for those with dietary restrictions.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 different nutritious recipes that showcase the versatility of bajra flour. From savory flatbreads to sweet treats, these dishes are sure to delight your taste buds while providing a boost to your health.
Stay tuned for our first recipe…
Bajra Roti with Ghee and Jaggery
Savor the rustic charm of this traditional Indian flatbread, infused with the nutty flavor of bajra (pearl millet) and sweetened with jaggery. A perfect accompaniment to your favorite curries or stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Ghee, for brushing
– Jaggery, crushed or grated
– Optional: sesame seeds or chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Mix flours, salt, and sugar in a bowl.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a smooth dough. Knead for 5 minutes.
3. Cover and rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide dough into 6-8 portions. Roll out each portion into a thin circle (about 3 inches in diameter).
5. Brush the surface with ghee.
6. Sprinkle crushed jaggery evenly over the roti.
7. Fold the roti in half to form a triangle or a square shape. Seal the edges by pressing gently.
8. Cook on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, until golden brown and slightly puffed.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Bajra Khichdi with Vegetables
Khichdi is a popular Indian dish made with millet or rice, lentils, and a variety of vegetables. This recipe combines the nutritional benefits of bajra (millet) with the flavors of mixed vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra (white or pearl)
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the bajra and lentils together, then soak them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the mixture and pressure cook with 2 cups of fresh water until the grains are cooked and mushy.
3. Heat ghee or oil in a pan, add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
4. Add grated carrot, diced potato, and garlic; sauté for another 5 minutes.
5. Combine the cooked bajra-lentil mixture with the vegetable mixture and season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bajra Dosa with Coconut Chutney
In this recipe, we combine the nutty flavor of millets with the creamy goodness of coconut chutney to create a unique and flavorful dosa. This dish is perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra (pearl millet) flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon oil
– For the coconut chutney:
+ 1 cup grated coconut
+ 1/2 cup yogurt
+ 1 small onion, finely chopped
+ 1 green chili, finely chopped
+ Salt to taste
+ Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Mix bajra flour with water and salt to form a smooth batter.
2. Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
3. Pour the batter onto the pan and spread evenly.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the dosa is golden brown and crispy.
5. For the chutney, blend all ingredients together until smooth.
6. Serve the dosa with coconut chutney and garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bajra Thepla with Spiced Yogurt
A classic Punjabi flatbread, Bajra Thepla is a staple in many households. This recipe combines the earthy flavor of pearl millet flour with the tanginess of spiced yogurt, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite curry or as a snack on its own.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl millet flour
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Spiced Yogurt (recipe below)
Thepla Recipe:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the pearl millet flour, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add the ghee or oil and mix until the dough comes together.
3. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and pliable.
4. Divide into 6-8 portions and shape each portion into a ball.
5. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, about 3 inches in diameter.
Spiced Yogurt:
1. In a bowl, combine 1 cup plain yogurt with 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
2. Mix well to combine.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bajra Pancakes with Honey
Start your day with a delicious and healthy twist on traditional pancakes, made with the nutritious millets bajra ( pearl millet) and topped with sweet honey. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a gluten-free and high-fiber breakfast option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra flour
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Honey, for serving
– Fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the bajra flour and water to form a smooth batter.
2. Add the salt and ghee or oil to the batter and stir well.
3. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
4. Pour in a ladle of the batter and spread it evenly to form a pancake.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the edges start to curl and the surface is dry.
6. Flip the pancake and cook for another minute.
7. Serve the pancakes hot with a drizzle of honey and chopped fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Bajra Porridge with Nuts and Dates
Start your day with a comforting bowl of bajra porridge, infused with the sweetness of dates and crunch of nuts. This recipe combines the nutritional benefits of millets with the indulgence of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra (pearl millet)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1/2 cup pitted dates, chopped
– Optional: a pinch of cardamom powder for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Rinse the bajra and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the water and cook the bajra with 2 cups of fresh water in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Once the porridge is cooked and creamy, add salt, ghee or oil, almonds, and dates. Stir well to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of cardamom powder if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bajra Pizza with Seasonal Toppings
Elevate your pizza game with this unique recipe featuring bajra (pearl millet) as the crust, topped with seasonal delights. Perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Seasonal toppings (see below)
– Pizza sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Seasonal Toppings:
– Spring: cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil
– Summer: grilled corn, red onion, cilantro
– Autumn: roasted butternut squash, caramelized onions, sage
– Winter: caramelized apples, crumbled blue cheese, walnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Mix bajra and whole wheat flours with salt and sugar.
3. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a dough.
4. Knead for 5 minutes, then let it rest for 10 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough into a circle or rectangle shape.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Spread pizza sauce, leaving a small border.
8. Add your chosen seasonal toppings.
9. Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle with oregano.
10. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bajra Cookies with Sesame Seeds
These wholesome cookies are made with bajra (pearl millet) flour, a nutrient-rich ingredient commonly used in Indian cuisine. The addition of sesame seeds provides an extra boost of protein and healthy fats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra flour
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together bajra flour, all-purpose flour, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Fold in sesame seeds.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Bajra Upma with Fresh Herbs
Start your day with a flavorful and nutritious bowl of Bajra Upma, made with pearl millet (bajra) and infused with the freshness of herbs. This Indian-inspired dish is perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl millet (bajra)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges and chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the pearl millet and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain and blend the soaked millet with 2 cups of fresh water until smooth.
3. Heat ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
4. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
5. Pour in the blended millet mixture and stir well to combine.
6. Add the cilantro, mint, and salt. Stir until the herbs are evenly distributed.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the upma thickens slightly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bajra Pasta with Creamy Sauce
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of pearl millet (bajra) with the comfort of creamy pasta sauce, creating a unique and delicious dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 cup bajra (pearl millet)
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
3. Add bajra and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir until the mixture thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, creamy sauce, and Parmesan cheese. Toss until well coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bajra Cheela with Mint Chutney
A flavorful breakfast or brunch option from the heart of India, this recipe combines the nutritional goodness of pearl millet bread (bajra cheela) with a refreshing mint chutney. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
For Bajra Cheela:
– 1 cup pearl millet flour
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 3/4 cup lukewarm water
– Ghee or oil for greasing
For Mint Chutney:
– 1 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Mix dry ingredients and add lukewarm water to form a dough.
2. Knead for 5 minutes and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. Divide into 4-6 portions, depending on desired size.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle and cook on a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat until golden brown.
5. For mint chutney, blend all ingredients in a mixer till smooth.
6. Serve bajra cheela with mint chutney and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including resting time)
Bajra Bread with Flaxseeds
This recipe combines the nutritional benefits of bajra (pearl millet) and flaxseeds to create a healthy and flavorful bread. The addition of flaxseeds adds omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein to this whole-grain bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra flour
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 cup lukewarm water
– 1 tablespoon flaxseeds, ground
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine bajra flour, all-purpose flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Add yeast to the lukewarm water and let it activate for 5 minutes. Then, add this mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a smooth batter forms.
3. Stir in ground flaxseeds and olive oil.
4. Knead the dough for 10-12 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Bajra Ladoo with Cardamom
Bajra ladoo is a traditional Indian sweet made with pearl millet flour, cardamom, and nuts. These ladoos are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festival or just a sweet craving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra (pearl millet) flour
– 1/2 cup ghee
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds or cashews)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Heat the ghee in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the bajra flour and cook, stirring constantly, until it turns light golden brown.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Add the powdered sugar, cardamom powder, and salt to the cooled mixture. Mix well.
5. Fold in the chopped nuts.
6. Shape into small balls (ladoos).
7. Serve or store in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bajra Dhokla with Green Chutney
Dhoklas are a popular snack from Gujarat, and when made with the nutritious pearl millet (bajra), it becomes an even more wholesome treat. This recipe combines the crispy bajra dhokla with a refreshing green chutney for a perfect accompaniment.
Ingredients:
For Bajra Dhokla:
– 1 cup pearl millet flour
– 1/2 cup yogurt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt, to taste
– Water, as needed
For Green Chutney:
– 1 cup fresh coriander leaves
– 1/2 cup green chilies
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Mix the bajra flour with yogurt, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add water to form a thick batter.
3. Pour into greased molds and steam for 15-20 minutes or until crispy.
4. For green chutney, blend all ingredients together in a blender until smooth.
5. Serve the bajra dhokla with green chutney and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bajra Idli with Sambar
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of bajra (pearl millet) idlis with the tangy, spicy goodness of sambar, making for a delightful breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
For Bajra Idlis:
– 1 cup bajra flour
– 1/2 cup curd
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– Salt, to taste
– Water, as needed
For Sambar:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, and peas)
– 1 cup tamarind water
– 1 tablespoon sambar powder
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Soak the bajra flour in curd for 2 hours.
2. Add baking soda and salt; mix well.
3. Gradually add water to form a thick batter.
4. Steam idlis for 10-12 minutes or until they are cooked through.
5. For sambar, sauté mixed vegetables in a little oil until tender.
6. Add tamarind water, sambar powder, and salt; simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Serve idlis with warm sambar and garnish with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bajra Crackers with Herbs
A delicious and crispy snack made with millets, perfect for a quick bite or as an accompaniment to your favorite soups and chutneys.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra (pearl millet) flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, cilantro, or thyme)
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bajra flour, whole wheat flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add olive oil and mix until the dough comes together.
4. Gradually add water as needed to form a smooth dough.
5. Divide the dough into small portions and roll out each portion into thin circles (about 1/8 inch thick).
6. Place the crackers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Sprinkle chopped herbs evenly over the crackers.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crackers are crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bajra Paratha with Pickle
Experience the rustic charm of Indian cuisine with this simple recipe for Bajra Parathas, served with a tangy pickle accompaniment. This classic combination is a staple in many North Indian households and is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra (pearl millet) flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Pickle of your choice (e.g., mango, lime, or mixed vegetable)
Instructions:
1. Mix together bajra flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add ghee or oil and mix until the dough comes together.
3. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a smooth dough.
4. Knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough is soft and pliable.
5. Divide into 6-8 equal portions.
6. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
7. Cook on a hot griddle or tava over medium heat for 30 seconds to 1 minute, flipping occasionally.
8. Serve with your favorite pickle.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including preparation time)
Bajra Pudding with Cinnamon
This classic Indian dessert is a perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors. The addition of cinnamon adds a warm, comforting touch to this traditional pudding made with millets.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra (pearl millet)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Rinse the bajra and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the water and blend the bajra with 1 cup of fresh water until smooth.
3. In a saucepan, combine the blended bajra mixture, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in ghee or oil.
6. Pour the pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the nutritional benefits of bajra flour and explore 18 delicious recipes that incorporate this superfood into your meals. From traditional Indian dishes like roti, dosa, and khichdi to innovative creations like pizza, pasta, and pudding, there’s something for everyone in this collection of healthy eating ideas. Learn how to make bajra-rich breakfast options, snacks, and desserts that are not only tasty but also packed with protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients.
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