Chef Sanjeev Kapoor’s healthy, gluten-free foxtail millet idli recipe will give your breakfast a supergrain boost

Foxtail millet, known as kangni in Hindi, is a small, golden grain with a slightly nutty flavour. Rich in protein, dietary fibre, and essential minerals, it supports digestion, helps manage blood sugar, and promotes heart health. This wholesome twist on the classic idli is easy to make and perfect for a nutritious breakfast or snack. Here’s how you can make it at home:

Also Read | Sanjeev Kapoor explains why Indian cuisine always wins over trendy Western options: ‘Most sold burger is aloo tikki’

Ingredients

• 1 cup foxtail millet (washed, soaked for 3-4 hours, and drained)
• ½ cup split skinless black gram (dhuli urad dal) (washed, soaked for 3-4 hours, and drained)
• 1 teaspoon fenugreek seeds (methi dana) (soaked for 3-4 hours, and drained)
• Salt to taste
• Oil for brushing
• Coconut chutney to serve

Method

• In a grinder jar, combine foxtail millet, split skinless black gram, fenugreek seeds, and ¾ cup water. Grind to a fine paste. Transfer the mixture into a large bowl and set aside to ferment for 6-8 hours.
• Once fermented, add salt and mix well.
• Boil sufficient water in a steamer.
• Brush each cavity of the idli moulds with some oil. Pour a ladleful of batter into each cavity and place the moulds in the steamer. Cover and steam for 10-12 minutes.
• Remove the moulds from the steamer and de-mould the idlis.
• Place the idlis on serving plates and serve hot with coconut chutney.

Health benefits

Foxtail millet is a nutrient-packed supergrain, rich in fibre, protein, essential minerals such as iron, magnesium, and calcium, and B vitamins. According to Redcliffe Labs, its benefits include promoting healthy digestion, regulating blood sugar, supporting heart health by reducing cholesterol, and assisting in weight management. Naturally gluten-free, it is ideal for those with gluten sensitivities, and its nutritional profile also helps strengthen overall immunity.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.