Sakkare Millet Pongal Recipe
Description:
Sakkare Pongal is a traditional South Indian sweet dish, typically prepared with rice, moong dal, and jaggery. By substituting rice with millet, this variation not only makes the dish healthier but also enhances the flavor, with the natural sweetness of millet beautifully complementing the jaggery. Millet’s small grains cook quickly and provide a perfect consistency, making this dessert a delightful treat for any occasion. Rich in nutrients and packed with flavors, Sakkare Millet Pongal is a wholesome indulgence for both festive and everyday meals.
Cuisine: South Indian Recipes
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Foxtail Millet | 1 cup |
| Milk (skimmed) | 1/2 liter |
| Water | 2 cups |
| Jaggery (powdered) | 1/2 cup |
| Cardamom (Elaichi) Pods/Seeds | 2 |
| Dry Fruits (Raisins, Cashews) | 2 tablespoons |
| Ghee | 1 tablespoon |
| Dry Coconut (Kopra) | 2 tablespoons (optional) |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Instructions
-
Prepare the Millet:
Begin by heating 1/2 liter of milk along with 1 cup of water in a saucepan. Once the milk is warm, add the washed foxtail millet. Reduce the flame to a low simmer and cook the millet until it becomes soft and fully absorbed into the liquid. -
Make the Jaggery Syrup:
While the millet is cooking, take a heavy-bottomed pan and add jaggery powder with 1 cup of water. Heat it over medium flame until the jaggery dissolves completely and the syrup begins to boil gently. Keep stirring occasionally to avoid burning. -
Combine Jaggery Syrup with Millet:
Once the millet is cooked, pour the jaggery syrup into the millet mixture. Stir well and cook it on low flame, allowing the mixture to thicken. As it cooks, you’ll notice the consistency becoming firmer, and it will start to leave the sides of the pan. When this happens, it’s time to switch off the flame. -
Flavor the Pongal:
Add cardamom powder (either freshly ground or from the cardamom pods) to the mixture. Stir the Pongal well to ensure that the cardamom is evenly distributed. -
Prepare the Garnish:
In a small pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee. Once it melts, add dry fruits such as raisins and cashews. Sauté them until they turn golden brown and aromatic. Pour this ghee and dry fruit mixture over the cooked millet pongal and give it a final mix. -
Optional Garnish:
For an additional burst of flavor and texture, you can garnish the Pongal with grated dry coconut (kopra), though this is optional. -
Serve:
Serve your Sakkare Millet Pongal warm, either as a sweet dish to end your South Indian meal or as a special dessert for festive occasions.
Allergen Information:
- Dairy: This recipe contains milk and ghee, which may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance.
- Nuts: Contains cashews and raisins, which may pose a risk to individuals with nut allergies.
Dietary Preferences:
- This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, and you can opt for vegan alternatives such as plant-based milk (e.g., almond or coconut milk) and a vegan butter substitute for ghee.
- The dish is also gluten-free, making it suitable for those following a gluten-free diet.
Tips & Variations:
- Millet Variations: While foxtail millet is used in this recipe, you can substitute it with other varieties like pearl millet or barnyard millet for a different flavor profile.
- Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dish, feel free to adjust the amount of jaggery according to your taste. You can also try using organic jaggery for a more earthy sweetness.
- Nuts and Dry Fruits: You can add your choice of nuts and dry fruits, such as almonds, pistachios, or walnuts, to enhance the texture and flavor. You can also experiment with dried fruits like figs or apricots for a unique twist.
- Vegan Option: For a vegan version, replace milk with coconut milk or almond milk, and use coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative instead of ghee.
Conclusion:
Sakkare Millet Pongal is a comforting, nutritious, and naturally sweet South Indian dessert that offers a healthier alternative to traditional Pongal made with rice. With its delightful combination of millet, jaggery, and aromatic spices, this dish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a wholesome dessert that can be enjoyed guilt-free. Whether you’re celebrating a festival or simply want to indulge in a flavorful dessert, Sakkare Millet Pongal makes for the perfect choice!
