Foxtail Millet Nucchina Unde Recipe (Foxtail Millet and Lentil Dumplings)
Looking for a wholesome, nutritious snack that combines the goodness of traditional South Indian flavors with a healthy twist? The Foxtail Millet Nucchina Unde is an excellent choice! Packed with a blend of healthy lentils, foxtail millet, and aromatic spices, this dish serves as a great evening snack or a light starter. The simplicity of its ingredients and the ease of preparation make it a perfect addition to your list of nutritious recipes.
This South Indian snack offers a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and health benefits, making it a great option for anyone looking to eat clean without compromising on taste. Let’s dive into the recipe to enjoy this light and flavorful dish, which pairs beautifully with Masala Chai for that authentic South Indian experience.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Foxtail Millet | 1 cup |
| Arhar Dal (Split Toor Dal) | 3/4 cup |
| Chana Dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 1/4 cup |
| Yellow Moong Dal (Split) | 1 tablespoon |
| Fresh Coconut (Grated) | 1/2 cup |
| Green Chillies | 6 (slit or chopped as preferred) |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A generous pinch |
| Onion (Finely Chopped) | 2 medium-sized |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | 1 cup (finely chopped) |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time:
- Soaking Time: 6-8 hours for foxtail millet; 3 hours for lentils
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Instructions
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Soak the Ingredients: Start by washing the foxtail millet thoroughly. Place it in a bowl and soak it for about 6 to 8 hours to allow it to soften. In a separate bowl, wash the Arhar dal, Chana dal, and Yellow Moong dal. Let them soak for 3 hours to soften.
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Prepare the Mixture: After soaking, drain all the water from both the millet and the lentils. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained millet with the soaked lentils. Add the grated fresh coconut, chopped green chillies, asafoetida, and coriander leaves to the mixture.
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Grind the Mixture: Using a food processor or a stone grinder, grind the mixture into a coarse texture. You want it to be firm enough to hold together but still slightly grainy. The coarse texture is key to creating the perfect dumpling consistency.
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Add Onion and Salt: Once the mixture is ready, add the finely chopped onions and salt to taste. Mix everything well, ensuring that the onions are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
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Shape the Dumplings: Grease your idli plates with a little ghee or oil. Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into lemon-sized balls. Flatten them slightly to resemble the shape of malai chum chum, or keep them round as per your preference.
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Steam the Dumplings: Place the shaped dumplings onto the idli plates and steam them for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fully cooked. They should become firm and have a soft, slightly spongy texture.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once steamed, carefully remove the dumplings from the idli plates. Serve the Foxtail Millet Nucchina Unde hot with a cup of Masala Chai for a perfect evening snack or light starter.
Tips
- If you prefer a spicier version, you can add more green chillies or even include a pinch of black pepper.
- For added flavor, you can drizzle a little ghee over the steamed dumplings before serving.
- This recipe can be easily doubled or tripled depending on the number of servings needed.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
- Calories: 120-150 kcal (depending on portion size)
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 3g
With its delightful texture and rich taste, the Foxtail Millet Nucchina Unde will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a light meal, this recipe offers a nutritious alternative to traditional dumplings while still capturing the essence of South Indian cuisine.
Why Choose Foxtail Millet Nucchina Unde?
- Gluten-Free: Ideal for those with gluten sensitivities or those following a gluten-free diet.
- High in Protein: The combination of lentils and millet makes this dish a great source of plant-based protein.
- Rich in Fiber: Both the millet and the lentils provide a significant amount of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health.
- Packed with Nutrients: Fresh coconut, coriander, and green chillies add to the nutritional profile, providing essential vitamins and antioxidants.
So, whether you’re enjoying it as a snack during a cozy evening or serving it as an appetizer for guests, this Foxtail Millet Nucchina Unde will surely delight your taste buds while offering a nutritious boost. Enjoy!
