Varagu Pidi Kozhukattai | Kodo Millet Steamed Balls | Millet Upma Kozhukattai | Millet Dumplings

Upma kozhukattai, a tambrahm delicacy, are made with rice rava. For a change, I tried using varagu arisi (kodo millet) to make dumplings today and the result was awesome. Varagu arisi, rich in protein, fiber, folic acid and minerals, can be used to make idli, dosa, pongal, upma, payasam, etc. It is recommended to use varagu as a substitute to rice or wheat. This gluten-free millet strengthens the nervous system, reduces the body weight and also checks high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Let's see the recipe to make varagu pidi kozhukattai.

Varagu pidi kozhukattai served with peanut chutney

Ingredients:
Varagu arisi/ Kodo millet - 1 cup
Water - 1 1/4 cup
Onion - 1 finely chopped
Carrot - 1 grated
Ginger - 1 inch finely chopped
Green chilli - 2 finely chopped
Salt - to taste
Turmeric powder - 1/4 tsp
Oil - 1 tbsp
Mustard seeds - 1/2 tsp
Urad dal - 1/2 tsp
Chana dal - 1/2 tsp
Hing - 1 pinch
Curry leaves - 1 sprig

Method:

• Heat oil in a kadai, add mustard seeds, urad dal, chana dal, hing and curry leaves. When they splutter, add onion and saute till it turns transparent.
• Add ginger and green chillies; add turmeric powder. Saute for a minute. Now add grated carrot and saute till its half cooked.
• Add water and salt. When water starts boiling, add the millet, cover the kadai with lid and cook in low flame until all the water gets absorbed by the millet.
• Once done, let it cool for sometime. When its warm enough to touch, make balls out of upma and steam it in idli pot for 10-15 minutes.
• Varagu upma kozhakattai is ready to serve. Enjoy with your favorite chutney or pickle.

Note:

• Add any vegetables of your choice like beans, potato, capsicum, green peas, etc.
• Add grated coconut for enhanced taste.