Bajra refers to the edible seeds of pearl millet plants.
- Bajra is a versatile ingredient that can be used to replace rice, quinoa, oats, and other grains in many dishes.To prepare bajra, simply bring 1 cup (170 grams) of millet and 2 cups (473 mL) of water or broth to a boil. Next, reduce it to a simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes. This method should produce a light, fluffy grain.
- If you want your bajra to be more like a porridge, you can add up to 1 additional cup (237 mL) of water, dairy, or broth. You can also toast the dry millet for a few minutes before adding the liquid to bring out a rich, nutty flavor in the grain.
- Prior to cooking, bajra may be soaked for hours or even days in water or a Lactobacillus-rich dairy like buttermilk or kefir. Fermenting millet and millet flour is common in Africa and Asia. It not only affects its flavor and taste but also likely its nutrient content.
Like most millets, bajra is a nutrient-dense source of protein, carbs, vitamins, minerals, and beneficial plant chemicals. Some of the potential health benefits associated with regularly eating bajra are weight loss, improved diabetes management, and a higher intake of nutrients that support healthy hair, nails, and skin.
