Are you looking for a nutritious and flavorful addition to your diet? Look no further than bajra, also known as pearl millet! This ancient grain is packed with nutrients like protein, fiber, and essential minerals. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide variety of dishes. From savory breakfast options to sweet treats, we’ve rounded up 20 delicious Bajra recipes that you’re sure to love.
In this article, we’ll take a journey through the world of Bajra cuisine, exploring everything from classic Indian dishes like Bajra Roti with Ghee and Bajra Khichdi, to international twists like Bajra Pancakes and Bajra Soup. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to inspire your next meal.
Bajra Roti with Ghee
Bajra roti is a popular Punjabi flatbread made from pearl millet flour, and when paired with ghee, it’s a match made in heaven. This recipe is a simple yet flavorful way to start your day or accompany your favorite curry.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups bajra (pearl millet) flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Ghee, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bajra flour and salt.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water to the flour mixture and knead until a smooth dough forms.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball.
5. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the roti for 30 seconds on each side, until it’s lightly browned and puffed up.
7. Serve the bajra roti with melted ghee and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bajra Khichdi
A simple and comforting Rajasthani dish made with pearl millet (bajra) and a blend of aromatic spices, perfect for a cozy evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl millet (bajra)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the pearl millet and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the water and grind the millet into a coarse paste using a blender or grinder.
3. Heat the ghee or oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
4. Add the chopped onion, cumin seeds, and coriander powder. Saute until the onion is translucent.
5. Add the ground millet paste to the pan and stir well.
6. Gradually add 2 cups of water to the mixture and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the khichdi thickens.
8. Season with salt to taste.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Bajra Dosa
Bajra dosa is a popular breakfast or snack option from the southern part of India, made with millets and spices. This recipe uses pearl millet flour as the base and is flavored with green chilies, ginger, and coriander.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl millet flour (bajra)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 green chili, finely chopped
– 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon coriander leaves, chopped
– Oil or ghee for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the bajra flour, water, salt, and sugar. Mix until a smooth batter forms.
2. Add the chopped onion, green chili, ginger, and coriander leaves to the batter. Mix well.
3. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
4. Pour a ladle of the batter onto the pan and spread it evenly to form a thin circle.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the edges start to curl.
6. Flip and cook for another minute.
7. Repeat with the remaining batter.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bajra Upma
Bajra upma is a popular breakfast dish from India made with pearl millet, onions, and spices. This recipe is a simple and flavorful way to start your day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra (pearl millet) flour
– 2 cups water
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ghee or oil
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the bajra flour and water to form a smooth paste.
2. Heat the ghee or oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
4. Pour in the bajra paste and stir well to combine with the onions.
5. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the upma thickens slightly.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
8. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bajra Pulao
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot dish from India, Bajra Pulao is a perfect blend of spices, herbs, and nutty bajra (pearl millet) rice. This easy-to-make recipe is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra (pearl millet) rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the bajra rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat ghee or oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
3. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add cumin seeds and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Add the soaked bajra rice, coriander powder, and salt. Stir well to combine.
6. Add 2 cups of water and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Bajra Kheer
A traditional Indian dessert, Bajra Kheer is a rich and creamy pudding made with black chickpeas (also known as Bajra), milk, sugar, and cardamom. This sweet treat is perfect for special occasions or as a comforting snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black chickpeas
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the cooked black chickpeas, milk, sugar, and cardamom. Blend until smooth.
2. Heat the mixture in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted.
4. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to chill and thicken further.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Bajra Ladoo
Bajra Ladoos are a popular Indian sweet treat made with millets and nuts, perfect for any occasion or festival celebration. These bite-sized balls of goodness are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a delightful snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra (millet)
– 1/2 cup ghee
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1/4 cup chopped cashews
– 1 tablespoon cardamom powder
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Dry roast the bajra in a pan over medium heat until fragrant and lightly browned.
2. In a separate pan, melt the ghee over low heat. Add the almonds and cashews and stir until they are lightly toasted.
3. Mix the roasted bajra with the nut mixture and add cardamom powder and salt. Mix well.
4. Using your hands, shape small portions of the mixture into balls (about 1-inch diameter).
5. Serve warm or store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bajra Pancakes
Start your day with a nutritious and flavorful breakfast by trying these Bajra Pancakes, made with the goodness of pearl millet flour (bajra). These pancakes are not only delicious but also packed with fiber and protein.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra flour
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup plain yogurt
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional)
– Butter or oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together bajra flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the yogurt and mix until a smooth batter forms.
3. Gradually add water to achieve a thick but pourable consistency.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
5. Brush with butter or oil and drop 1/4 cup of the batter onto the pan.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to curl.
7. Flip and cook for another minute.
8. Serve hot with a drizzle of honey or sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of pancakes)
Bajra Salad
A refreshing and healthy salad recipe that combines the nutty flavor of bajra (pearl millet) with crunchy vegetables and a zesty dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked bajra
– 1 cup mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup carrot, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked bajra, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and carrot.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Bajra Soup
This hearty and comforting Bajra Soup is a popular Indian dish made with millet, vegetables, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra (pearl millet)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 medium potato, peeled and chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the bajra and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and wash the soaked bajra, then blend it with 2 cups of fresh water until smooth.
3. Heat the ghee in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, carrot, and potato. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the blended bajra mixture, cumin, coriander, and salt to the pan. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bajra Paratha
A flavorful flatbread from North India, Bajra Paratha is a perfect accompaniment to various curries and dal. Made with pearl millet flour, this paratha is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pearl millet flour (bajra)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– Ghee or oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bajra flour and salt.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water to form a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions.
5. Roll out each portion into a ball, then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
6. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the paratha for 1 minute on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
7. Brush with ghee or oil and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bajra Dhokla
Bajra dhokla is a popular street food in Gujarat, India, made from pearl millet (bajra) and fermented to create a soft, spongy texture. This recipe brings the authentic flavors of this beloved snack to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl millet flour
– 1/2 cup yogurt
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together millet flour, yogurt, and water until smooth.
2. Add baking soda, asafoetida (if using), and salt. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a steamer basket lined with parchment paper.
4. Steam for 15-20 minutes or until the dhokla is cooked through and spongy.
5. Remove from heat and garnish with cilantro leaves.
6. Serve warm with a dollop of butter, chutney, or tea.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bajra Idli
A traditional Indian breakfast dish from the southern region of Tamil Nadu, Bajra Idli is a flavorful and nutritious option made with pearl millet (bajra) and coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra (pearl millet)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1/2 cup grated coconut
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the bajra and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the water and grind the bajra into a smooth batter using a blender or grinder.
3. In a separate pan, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the grated coconut and sauté until lightly browned.
4. Combine the ground bajra, baking soda, salt, and sautéed coconut mixture in a bowl.
5. Gradually add water to the batter to achieve a thick but pourable consistency.
6. Grease idli molds with coconut oil and fill them with the batter.
7. Steam the idlis over boiling water for 10-12 minutes or until they are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bajra Halwa
Bajra halwa, a traditional Indian dessert, is made with pearl millet flour, ghee, and nuts. This rich and creamy pudding is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl millet flour (bajra)
– 1/2 cup ghee
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, or pistachios) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Roast the pearl millet flour in a non-stick pan over medium heat until fragrant and lightly browned.
2. In a large pan, melt the ghee over medium heat. Add the roasted bajra flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture turns light golden.
3. Add the sugar, milk, and cardamom powder to the pan. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the halwa thickens and leaves the sides of the pan.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped nuts.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bajra Pakora
A crispy and flavorful snack from North India, Bajra Pakora is a popular street food made with pearl millet flour, onions, and spices. This simple recipe yields a delicious batch of crunchy fritters perfect for snacking or as an accompaniment to your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pearl millet flour (bajra)
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the pearl millet flour, chopped onion, cumin seeds, red chili powder, and garam masala powder.
2. Gradually add water to form a thick batter.
3. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
4. Drop tablespoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Drain the pakoras on paper towels and serve hot with your favorite chutney or tea.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Bajra Biscuits
A sweet and crumbly biscuit made with the nutty goodness of bajra (pearl millet) flour, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra flour
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together bajra flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in honey and beaten egg until well combined.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., circles or squares).
6. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each biscuit.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bajra Bread
Experience the wholesome goodness of this traditional Indian flatbread made with millets! Bajra bread is a delicious and nutritious alternative to regular wheat bread, packed with protein-rich bajra (pearl millet) and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 3/4 cup lukewarm water
– Ghee or oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine bajra flour, whole wheat flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a soft dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Cover and let it rest for 1 hour in a warm place.
5. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Divide the dough into 2-3 portions and shape into balls.
7. Roll out each ball into thin circles, about 6-7 inches in diameter.
8. Cook the bread for 1-2 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
9. Brush with ghee or oil and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bajra Porridge
Bajra porridge is a nutritious and comforting breakfast dish made with pearl millet (bajra) and spices. This recipe is a great way to start your day, providing sustained energy and a boost of fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl millet groats
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the pearl millet groats and soak them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the water and blend the soaked pearl millet with 2 cups of fresh water until smooth.
3. Heat the mixture in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and comes to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the porridge has reached your desired consistency.
5. Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, and salt.
6. If using ghee or oil, stir it in at this stage.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bajra Chikki
A traditional Indian sweet treat, Bajra Chikki is a crunchy and flavorful snack made with pearl millet flour and jaggery.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl millet flour (bajra)
– 1/2 cup jaggery powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Ghee or oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. In a pan, heat 1-2 teaspoons of ghee or oil over medium flame.
2. Add the pearl millet flour and cook, stirring constantly, until it turns light brown and fragrant (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Add the jaggery powder and cardamom powder to the cooled mixture. Mix well.
5. Grease a plate or surface with a little ghee or oil.
6. Pour the mixture onto the prepared surface and spread evenly to form a thin layer.
7. Allow it to cool and harden completely (about 30 minutes).
8. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Bajra Pudding
This traditional Indian pudding recipe is a delightful twist on the classic sweet treat. Made with millets, milk, and nuts, it’s a perfect dessert for warm evenings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bajra (pearl millet)
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the bajra and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the water and grind the bajra into a coarse paste using a blender or grinder.
3. In a large saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, almonds, cardamom powder, ghee, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a boil.
4. Add the ground bajra to the milk mixture and stir well.
5. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the pudding thickens.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the flavors of Bajra with these 20 delicious and nutritious recipe ideas! From traditional dishes like Bajra Roti with Ghee, Bajra Khichdi, and Bajra Dosa, to innovative creations such as Bajra Pancakes, Bajra Salad, and Bajra Soup, there’s something for everyone. Treat your taste buds to the rich flavors of India’s favorite millet-based recipes and discover new ways to incorporate this nutritious grain into your daily meals. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for some healthy inspiration, this article has got you covered!
