Adopting a gluten-free lifestyle, whether by choice or necessity, can sometimes feel restrictive. However, with the inclusion of versatile and nutritious millets, you can enjoy a wide variety of delicious and healthy meals.
Why Millets are Great for Gluten-Free Diets
All millets are naturally gluten-free, making them an excellent alternative to wheat, barley, and rye. They provide essential nutrients that might be lacking in some processed gluten-free products.
Tips for Incorporating Millets:
- Flour Power: Use millet flours (ragi, bajra, jowar) for baking bread, muffins, cookies, and pancakes. You might need to blend them with other gluten-free flours or use binders like xanthan gum for best results.
- Whole Grain Goodness: Cook whole millets like foxtail or little millet as a substitute for rice or quinoa in pilafs, salads, and grain bowls.
- Breakfast Boost: Start your day with millet porridge, upma, or even millet-based cereals.
- Snack Smart: Look for or make millet-based snacks like crackers, puffs, and energy bars.
- Read Labels: While millets are naturally gluten-free, always check labels on processed millet products to ensure they are certified gluten-free and not cross-contaminated.
Embracing millets can make your gluten-free journey more enjoyable, nutritious, and diverse. Experiment with different types and recipes to discover your favorites!