5 Desi millet recipes that are perfect for summers

Time of India

21-04-2025

The scorching heat often takes a toll on the appetite and gradually leads to reduced intake of nutrients. While the summer season calls for extra nutrition, a poor diet may leave you drained, and this is why a healthy diet is necessary to sustain the harsh weather. Well, a simple solution to this is to fall back to the basics, and what can be better than gorging on some delicious
millet recipes
? Here are some simple, summer-friendly recipes that are worth trying.
Why millets in summer?
Millets, also known as mota anaj, are one of the most ancient staples of India. However, with growing inclination towards health and well-being, there has been a demand for these grains across the world. Loaded with the goodness of nutrients, millets make for a great addition to the summer diet. Another major reason why adding millet to the summer diet is a great idea. Here are five easy and wholesome millet recipes that are perfect for summers. Read on to find out…
by Taboola
by Taboola
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Ragi Ambli
Ragi Ambli is a staple in Karnataka and parts of Andhra Pradesh, Ragi Ambli is a nourishing summer drink made from finger millet and buttermilk. To prepare, ragi flour is first mixed with water and gently cooked into a thin porridge. Once it cools, it's blended with buttermilk, seasoned with salt, cumin powder, and sometimes curry leaves or green chilli. This drink is excellent for gut health, hydration, and energy, making it a natural cooler during intense heat.
Bajra Khichdi
While bajra is often associated with winter due to its warming potency but if you are looking for a light meal, then this khichadi served with curd is a perfect treat for the summer season. Soak bajra overnight to reduce its heaviness, then cook it with moong dal, a bit of turmeric, and cumin. Finish with a tadka of ghee and asafoetida. Served with a bowl of curd, this dish becomes a cooling, filling, and protein-rich meal for lunch or dinner.
Jowar Dosa
Jowar dosa is light, crisp, and naturally gluten-free. To make it, mix jowar flour with rice flour, a bit of curd, water, chopped onions, green chillies, and coriander. Allow it to rest and then cook like a regular dosa. It's a quick, summer-friendly breakfast or snack, especially when paired with mint chutney or coconut chutney, which further add a cooling effect.
Kangni Dalia
Foxtail millet, or kangni, is ideal for summer porridges. A simple sweet or savory dalia can be made using this grain. For the savory version, cook foxtail millet with chopped vegetables, ginger, green chilli, and curry leaves. For a sweet version, cook it with milk (or coconut milk), jaggery, and cardamom. Foxtail millet is light and alkaline in nature, aiding digestion and soothing the stomach, especially when served slightly warm or at room temperature.
Samak Chawal Pulao
Traditionally used during fasting days, samak chawal (barnyard millet) is one of the best grains to consume during hot weather. It's non-acidic, cooling, and easy to digest. For a summer pulao, cook samak with seasonal vegetables like bottle gourd, carrot, or green beans, and mild spices like jeera and green chilli. Finish with lemon juice and coriander. This dish is light yet satisfying, making it a great choice for lunch during peak summer.