Millets: Ancient Grains Making a Comeback in the Western World

Millets are gaining popularity in the West because of their nutritive qualities, adaptability, and gluten-free status. Among the millets that are frequently consumed in the West are:

Pearl millet, also known as bajra, is frequently used in a variety of forms, including whole grains, flour, and flakes. It is frequently used to make bread, muffins, and other baked goods that are gluten-free.

Quinoa: Despite not being a millet in the strictest sense, quinoa is frequently referred to as an ancient grain and is very popular in the West. It is valued highly for its full protein profile and is used as a substitute for rice as well as in salads and bowls.

Foxtail millet: Foxtail millet is becoming more well-known as a wholesome, gluten-free alternative. It can be utilized in porridge, pilafs, porridges and as rice replacement.

Finger millet (Ragi): Due to its high nutritional value, ragi is used to make gluten-free flours in the West and is added to baked goods, pancakes, and porridges.

Millet Flour Blends: Millet flour is used in gluten-free baking for bread, muffins, cookies, and other baked goods. It is frequently combined with other gluten-free flours like almond flour, rice flour, or tapioca flour.

Millet Cereals: Breakfast cereals made with millet as a main ingredient offer a crunchy and filling start to the day. Examples include millet flakes and puffed millet.

Millet Snacks: Snacks made of millet are becoming more and more well-liked as healthy substitutes for conventionally processed snacks.Examples include popped millet bars, millet crackers, and savory puffed millet snacks.

Millet Salads: Millets are used as a foundation in a variety of grain salads, offering a nutrient-rich substitute for rice or pasta salads.

Beverages made from millet: Millet is also used to make plant-based millet milk, which is a dairy-free milk substitute for people who have dietary restrictions or lactose intolerance.

The increased availability and consumption of various millets in these areas has been facilitated by the Western world's growing interest in a variety of nutrient-dense food options.