Bajra Pongal Recipe: Make Healthy Sweet Pongal with Millet and Jaggery

Balasahana Suresh
Makar sankranti and pongal festivals are synonymous with sweet rice dishes, but this year, try a healthier twist with millet (bajra) and jaggery. Bajra pongal is nutritious, wholesome, and naturally sweet, making it perfect for a festive treat that’s also good for digestion and energy.

Why Bajra Pongal?

  • Rich in Fiber: Bajra (pearl millet) keeps you full and aids digestion.
  • Natural Sweetness: jaggery is unrefined, maintaining minerals like iron and calcium.
  • Heart-Healthy & Gluten-Free: Ideal for people seeking traditional food with modern health benefits.
Ingredients (Serves 4)

  • 1 cup bajra (pearl millet)
  • ½ cup jaggery (grated)
  • 2 tablespoons ghee
  • 3 cups water
  • ½ teaspoon cardamom powder
  • A handful of cashews and raisins
Method

Cook Millet: Wash bajra thoroughly. Boil with 3 cups water until soft and fluffy.

Prepare jaggery Syrup: In a separate pan, melt jaggery with a little water on low flame until smooth.

Combine: Pour the jaggery syrup into the cooked bajra and mix well.

Flavor & Garnish: Add cardamom powder, roasted cashews, and raisins. Drizzle ghee on top for a rich flavor.

Serve Warm: Enjoy your healthy sweet pongal fresh, as part of your festival celebrations.

Tips for Perfect Bajra Pongal

  • Roast bajra lightly before cooking to enhance the nutty flavor.
  • Adjust jaggery quantity according to taste.
  • Optional: Add a pinch of edible dry ginger powder for extra warmth during winter.
This bajra pongal recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a healthy upgrade to traditional sweet dishes, allowing you to celebrate makar sankranti or pongal with both taste and wellness in mind.

 

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