Millet Groats — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips

Millet groats should appear round and golden, with a slight shine that indicates they are unspoiled and properly dried. The texture should be firm, and they should cook up fluffy and light, not mushy or clumpy.

Steer clear of millet that smells musty or looks damp, as this can suggest improper storage. Well-cooked millet should have a mild, nutty flavor, making it an excellent base for pilafs or as a healthy grain alternative in salads.

Millet groats should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. A pantry or cupboard is ideal for maintaining their freshness. Properly stored millet groats can last for up to a year.

Humidity and exposure to air can cause millet groats to spoil. Avoid storing them in clear containers exposed to light, as this can degrade their quality. Always keep the container tightly sealed and store in a dry place to ensure longevity.

Millet groats can last for 6-12 months when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. For longer storage, they can be refrigerated or frozen, where they can last up to 1-2 years.

Leftover millet groats can be used in a variety of healthy and hearty dishes. Cook them and serve as a base for grain bowls with vegetables, beans, and a protein of your choice, or mix them into a salad with fresh herbs, nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette. Millet groats are also great when added to soups or stews for added texture and nutrition.

Use millet groats as a substitute for rice or quinoa in stuffed vegetables like peppers or tomatoes, or mix them into a casserole with cheese, vegetables, and herbs. If you have a lot of millet groats, consider making a batch of millet porridge with milk, honey, and fruits for a nutritious breakfast. Millet groats can also be used in baking, where they add a nutty flavor and crunchy texture to breads or muffins. For a quick snack, toast millet groats with nuts and seeds for a crunchy granola-like topping for yogurt or salads.

Millet groats are a gluten-free grain rich in fiber, promoting digestive health and helping with bowel regularity. They are also a good source of magnesium, supporting muscle health and heart health by regulating blood pressure. Millet groats provide plant-based protein, aiding in muscle health and tissue repair, and are rich in antioxidants, helping protect cells from oxidative stress. Their low glycemic index makes them ideal for blood sugar control.