- August 12, 2025
Millet Biryani Recipe | Healthy & Flavorful One-Pot Dish
Biryani is one of the most beloved dishes in India, known for its rich aroma, layered spices, and mouthwatering flavors. While traditional versions are often made with basmati rice, today we’re going to prepare a Millet Biryani Recipe that is equally delicious, healthier, and perfect for modern lifestyles. This dish is ideal for those who are looking for a wholesome, fiber-rich, and gluten-free alternative to regular biryani.
Whether you choose foxtail millet biryani recipe, barnyard millet biryani recipe, or even kodo millet biryani recipe, this versatile dish works beautifully for family lunches, festive dinners, or even as a weight-loss-friendly option.
Why Millet Biryani?
Millets are known as “ancient grains” packed with nutrients. Switching from rice to millet in dishes like biryani provides:
High fiber content – supports digestion and weight management.
Low glycemic index – helps manage blood sugar levels.
Rich in minerals – iron, magnesium, and calcium boost overall health.
Gluten-free – suitable for people with gluten intolerance.
That’s why the healthy millet biryani recipe is gaining immense popularity in kitchens across India and beyond.
Types of Millet Biryani Recipes
Foxtail Millet Biryani Recipe – Mildly nutty flavor and cooks fast.
Barnyard Millet Biryani Recipe – Light and perfect for fasting or detox meals.
Kodo Millet Biryani Recipe – Slightly chewy, great for a hearty meal.
Little Millet Biryani Recipe – Soft texture, closest to traditional rice biryani.
Millet Vegetable Biryani Recipe – Loaded with seasonal veggies, nutritious and colorful.
Millet Dum Biryani Recipe – Traditional slow-cooked style with layers of millet and masala.
Millet Chicken Biryani Recipe – Protein-packed, flavorful, and filling.
Millet Mutton Biryani Recipe – Rich and aromatic, great for festive occasions.
Whether you want a vegetarian delight or a meaty feast, there’s a millet biryani to suit your taste.
Ingredients for Millet Biryani Recipe
Here’s a list of ingredients for a simple millet biryani recipe (vegetarian version).
For Millet Preparation:
1 cup millet (foxtail/barnyard/little millet)
2 cups water
Salt – ½ tsp
For Biryani Masala:
2 tbsp ghee or oil
1 bay leaf
2–3 cloves
2 green cardamoms
1 cinnamon stick
1 star anise
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 large onion – thinly sliced
2 tomatoes – finely chopped
1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
2 green chilies – slit
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrot, beans, peas, capsicum)
½ cup curd (whisked)
1 tsp red chili powder
1 tsp coriander powder
½ tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp garam masala
Fresh mint leaves – a handful
Fresh coriander leaves – a handful
Saffron strands soaked in warm milk (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions – How to Make Millet Biryani
Step 1: Wash and Soak the Millet
Rinse 1 cup of millet 2–3 times.
Soak for at least 20 minutes to help soften the grains and reduce cooking time.
Step 2: Cook the Millet
In a pressure cooker or pot, add soaked millet, 2 cups water, and ½ tsp salt.
Cook until just done (1 whistle in cooker or 12–15 mins on stovetop).
Fluff gently with a fork and keep aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Biryani Base
Heat ghee/oil in a wide pan.
Add bay leaf, cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, star anise, and cumin.
Sauté until aromatic.
Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.
Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies; fry till raw smell disappears.
Mix in chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften.
Step 4: Add Vegetables & Spices
Toss in carrot, beans, peas, and capsicum.
Add turmeric powder, chili powder, coriander powder, and salt.
Cook until vegetables are semi-soft.
Add whisked curd and stir well.
Step 5: Layering the Biryani (Millet Dum Biryani Style)
Spread half the millet over the masala base.
Sprinkle fresh mint, coriander, and saffron milk.
Add the remaining millet on top and repeat the garnish.
Cover with a tight lid and cook on low flame for 10 minutes (dum process).
Step 6: Fluff & Serve
Gently mix the millet biryani.
Serve hot with raita, papad, or pickle.
Variations of Millet Biryani Recipe
Millet Vegetable Biryani Recipe – Use seasonal veggies like broccoli, mushrooms, or corn for a nutritious twist.
Millet Dum Biryani Recipe – Cook in layers with dum technique for authentic flavor.
Millet Chicken Biryani Recipe – Add marinated chicken pieces before vegetables for a non-veg version.
Millet Mutton Biryani Recipe – Pressure cook mutton separately and layer it with millet for rich taste.
Instant Pot Millet Biryani Recipe – Cook the entire dish in one pot with sauté and pressure cook modes.
Millet Biryani Pressure Cooker Recipe – Faster method for busy days.
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Chef Tips for Perfect Millet Biryani
Soaking is key – Always soak millet before cooking.
Don’t overcook – Millets should be fluffy, not mushy.
Use ghee generously – For authentic aroma and richness.
Balance spices – Since millets are lighter than rice, adjust masalas slightly for bold flavor.
Try traditional dum cooking – It makes the millet biryani more aromatic.
Nutritional Benefits of Millet Biryani
High in dietary fiber – aids digestion.
Packed with protein when combined with dal or meat.
Rich in B vitamins and minerals like iron and magnesium.
Lowers cholesterol and supports heart health.
Perfect for weight loss millet biryani recipe seekers.
FAQs about Millet Biryani
Q1. Which millet is best for biryani?
Foxtail and little millet are best as they have a soft, rice-like texture.
Q2. Can I make millet biryani without soaking?
It’s not recommended. Soaking reduces cooking time and improves digestion.
Q3. Is millet biryani good for weight loss?
Yes, millet biryani is rich in fiber, keeps you full longer, and is ideal for weight management.
Q4. How to make millet biryani in a pressure cooker?
Cook millet and masala together for 1–2 whistles for a quick version.
Q5. Can I make non-veg millet biryani?
Absolutely! You can prepare millet chicken biryani recipe or millet mutton biryani recipe with the same method.
Serving Suggestions
Pair millet biryani with raita (onion, cucumber, or boondi).
Add papad or roasted fryums for crunch.
A side of pickle enhances the tanginess.
Interesting Facts
The Millet Biryani Recipe is a wholesome, flavorful, and healthier version of the traditional biryani. From foxtail millet biryani recipe to millet dum biryani recipe, you can customize it with vegetables, chicken, or mutton to suit your preferences. Whether you cook it in a pressure cooker, instant pot, or by the traditional dum method, this dish is guaranteed to win hearts.
If you’re looking for a nutritious millet biryani recipe for weight loss or just want to try something unique for your family, this dish is the perfect choice. Rich in nutrients, packed with flavor, and easy to prepare, millet biryani proves that healthy eating doesn’t mean compromising on taste.
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