How to Cook Millets: Simple Steps for Tasty & Healthy Meals

Millets are a powerhouse of nutrition, making them a perfect fit for today’s healthy lifestyle. If you're wondering how to cook millets, this guide will help you get started with confidence. From soft khichdi to crispy dosas, millet cooking can easily become part of your everyday kitchen routine. Rich in fiber, iron, and essential nutrients, millets can be used in both traditional and modern dishes.

How to Cook Millets the Right Way

1. Rinse and Soak

The first step in learning how to cook millets is rinsing them thoroughly 2–3 times to remove any dirt or impurities. Soaking millets for 4–6 hours before cooking makes them easier to digest and faster to prepare. This small step helps in better nutrient absorption and is essential for smooth millet cooking.

2. Use the Correct Water Ratio

Each millet variety has its own water requirement. If you’re learning how to cook millets, knowing the water ratio is key. For example, foxtail millet cooks well in a 1:2 ratio (millet:water), whereas bajra might need more water. When unsure, use a pressure cooker — it’s a reliable option for beginners exploring millet cooking.

3. Dry Roast Before Cooking

Want to make your millet dishes more aromatic? A great millet cooking tip is to dry roast the grains before adding water. This brings out a mild, nutty flavor and improves texture — especially for upma, khichdi, or even millet flour preparations. This technique adds depth to your millet-based meals.

4. Cook Like Rice or Steam

To understand how to cook millets like rice, use the correct water ratio and allow them to simmer until soft. You can also steam cooked millets to use in salads, tikkis, or desserts. Millets are highly versatile and adapt well to many types of cooking methods.

5. Experiment with Everyday Recipes

Once you’ve mastered how to cook millets, start adding them to your daily meals. Replace rice in pulao, use them in soups, or blend millet flour in dosa, roti, or pancakes. These grains are a nutritious alternative for anyone looking to eat clean without giving up on flavor.

Final Thoughts on How to Cook Millets

With the right approach, learning how to cook millets can transform your diet. These gluten-free grains are ideal for people managing diabetes, weight, or digestive health. Start small, follow the tips above, and let millet cooking become your everyday habit for a healthier life.