Millet grain can be crushed into a fine powder and used in many different ways.
Millet flour comes from the millet grain, an ancient food source. Today, millet is a vital crop grown throughout several regions of the world. Either stone or machine crushed, millet grain is often ground into a fine powder. The powder has a plethora of culinary uses and health properties. Add this to my Recipe Box.
History
Millet grain originated in Africa. Its domestication as a crop occurred more than 2,000 years ago and was brought to the Indian subcontinent. Eventually, the grain spread throughout South Asia. By the late 19th century, millet grain was introduced as a crop in the United States and by 1960, the crop began cultivation in Brazil, illustrating the worldwide demand for the grain.
Uses
Millet flour is commonly used in baking. Historically, millet flour, especially in areas where wheat is not as common, was used to make various breads, muffins and other types of baked goods. The Hunzu, an indigenous Indian tribe, uses millet flour to bake chapatti, a flat, whole wheat bread. Roti, an Indian flat cake, is a base for many traditional meals. In Vietnam, millet flour is used to make a fermented, alcoholic beverage called bacha.
Health Usage
Millet flour is an important and healthy alternative to wheat. For individuals who are allergic to gluten or are avoiding gluten as part of a diet, millet flour is naturally gluten-free. Millet powder is also mixed with wheat or rice flour to reduce gluten amounts; these methods are used for those avoiding gluten in high doses but are not allergic to it.
Additional Usage
Millet is also used as a food source for domesticated animals. Whole millet is used as a treat for pet birds and the powder is commonly used in the production of bird food. Poultry, pork and cow farmers utilize the health benefits and ease of production of millet flour and use it as an important animal feed source.
Tags: millet flour, avoiding gluten, commonly used, fine powder, flour important