Spicy Millet Casserole with Pumpkin and Feta
The Spicy Millet Casserole with Pumpkin and Feta is a wholesome, delicious, and nutritious dish that combines the goodness of foxtail millets, roasted pumpkin puree, and tangy feta cheese. This casserole brings together a beautiful balance of flavors, with a mild kick from the red chili flakes and the aromatic depth from cumin and cinnamon powder. The creamy texture of yogurt and egg whites perfectly complements the nutty flavor of the millet, while the feta cheese adds a rich, savory note. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a party with friends, this dish is also a great option for those following a gluten-free diet.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Foxtail Millet | 1 cup |
| Pumpkin Puree | 1 cup |
| Egg White | 2, lightly beaten |
| Curd (Dahi / Yogurt) | 1/2 cup, whisked |
| Feta Cheese | 1/2 cup, crumbled |
| Red Chilli Flakes | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cumin Powder (Jeera) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Cinnamon Powder (Dalchini) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Fresh Herbs | 1 tablespoon |
| Whole Wheat Bread Crumbs | 1/2 cup |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Instructions
-
Prepare the Pumpkin Puree
Start by preparing the pumpkin puree. You can either use store-bought pumpkin puree or make your own by roasting or steaming fresh pumpkin and blending it until smooth. Set the puree aside for later use. -
-
Cook the Foxtail Millet
In a saucepan, bring 1-1/2 cups of water to a brisk boil. Add the foxtail millet and cook on medium heat for about 10 minutes, until the millet is soft and most of the water is absorbed. Remove from heat once it’s done and set aside. -
Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt (curd), pumpkin puree, egg whites, red chili flakes, cumin powder, cinnamon powder, fresh herbs, and whole wheat breadcrumbs. Stir until all ingredients are well combined. Add salt to taste and mix in the cooked foxtail millet. Stir thoroughly to ensure the millet is evenly incorporated with the other ingredients. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. -
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish with olive oil or butter to prevent the casserole from sticking. -
Assemble the Casserole
Pour the millet and pumpkin mixture into the prepared baking dish. Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese but avoid mixing it completely into the dish. You want to retain some visible chunks of feta for texture and flavor. -
Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes. The casserole will set and firm up. When you gently shake the dish, it should wiggle slightly, indicating that it is set but still creamy. -
Serve
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Serve the Spicy Millet Casserole with Pumpkin and Feta warm, paired with a side of toasted garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 20mg |
| Sodium | 150mg |
| Potassium | 250mg |
| Calcium | 100mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
Allergen Information
This dish contains dairy from the feta cheese and yogurt. If you are lactose intolerant or following a dairy-free diet, you can substitute the dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives such as vegan feta cheese and coconut yogurt.
Dietary Preferences
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it uses foxtail millet instead of wheat.
- Vegetarian: The dish is vegetarian, as it contains no meat or animal byproducts (except for dairy).
- Nut-Free: There are no nuts in this recipe, making it suitable for those with nut allergies.
Tips & Variations
- Add more vegetables: You can add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to boost the nutrition of this casserole.
- Make it spicier: If you like your food with more heat, you can increase the amount of red chili flakes or even add a finely chopped fresh chili to the mixture.
- Make-ahead: This casserole can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.
- Vegan Version: For a vegan version, swap out the feta cheese for a plant-based cheese and use flax eggs or a similar egg substitute.
Conclusion
The Spicy Millet Casserole with Pumpkin and Feta is a comforting, hearty, and nutritious dish that’s perfect for anyone seeking a flavorful, gluten-free meal. The combination of foxtail millet, pumpkin puree, and feta creates a delightful balance of flavors, while the subtle spices like cumin and cinnamon give it a lovely warmth. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy weeknight dinner or serving it at a gathering with friends, this dish will surely be a hit. Pair it with garlic bread for an added touch of flavor and texture.
