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What is Sorghum or Jowar?

What is Sorghum or Jowar?

In India, sorghum goes by various names depending on the region. It's known as Jowar, Cholam, or Jonna, and is particularly prized in hot and dry areas due to its remarkable tolerance for drought and heat.


What is Sorghum or Jowar?

Sorghum: The Ancient Grain Making a Modern Comeback

Maintaining a healthy diet is more important than ever, and gluten-free options are gaining popularity. Sorghum, an ancient grain used in Asia for centuries, is a fantastic addition to your gluten-free pantry. Let's explore its impressive nutritional profile:

Benefits of Sorghum:

While quinoa and oats have become trendy health foods, sorghum offers a more affordable and readily available alternative in many regions, particularly in Asia. It's even nicknamed "the new quinoa" due to its similar nutritional value.

1. Fiber Powerhouse:

Fiber is crucial for a healthy digestive system, weight management, and preventing bloating, constipation, and stomach discomfort. Sorghum boasts more fiber than other millets like barley, with a single serving containing around 12 grams. This fiber intake can help reduce the risk of stroke, obesity, and diabetes.

2. Antioxidant Superstar:

Sorghum is packed with phytochemicals – antioxidants that fight free radicals and protect your body and skin. It contains tannins, anthocyanins, phenolic acids, and policosanols, providing even more antioxidants than some popular fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and plums. This makes sorghum a cost-effective way to combat aging and potentially reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.

3. Protein for Everyone:

Protein is essential for building and maintaining a healthy weight. Sorghum provides a great source of protein, particularly beneficial for vegetarians who may struggle to meet their daily protein needs. A single serving can offer 20-22 grams of protein, making it a valuable addition to your diet.

4. Gluten-Free Goodness:

Digestive issues like bloating and cramping are increasingly common. Sorghum is naturally gluten-free, unlike wheat and barley, which can cause digestive problems for some. This makes it a perfect alternative for those with gluten sensitivities.

Sorghum Flour Substitutes:

Yes, sorghum flour can be used as a gluten-free alternative in baking. However, due to the lack of gluten (which provides elasticity), additional binders or mixing with other gluten-free flours may be necessary for optimal results.

5. Potential Anticancer Properties:

Studies suggest that dark-colored sorghum varieties rich in 3-deoxyanthocyanins (3-DXA) may have anti-proliferative effects on human colon cancer cells. Additionally, the antioxidants in sorghum's bran layer may help reduce the risk of certain cancers, with studies linking sorghum consumption to a decreased risk of esophageal cancer.

6. Mood Booster:

Sorghum is a good source of Vitamin B6, which contributes to the production of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that regulates nerve impulses. Increased GABA production can improve mood, focus, relaxation abilities, and stress management.

7. Strong Bones:

Sorghum is rich in calcium and magnesium, both essential for strong bones. Calcium, in particular, requires magnesium for proper absorption, and both minerals are present in significant amounts in sorghum. This helps prevent bone conditions like osteoporosis and arthritis.

Did you know?

A 100g serving of sorghum provides 5% of your daily calcium needs and a whopping 40% of your daily magnesium requirement.

8. Improved Blood Circulation:

Sorghum contains iron and copper, minerals crucial for proper blood circulation. Iron is necessary for red blood cell formation, and copper enhances iron absorption. Consuming sorghum can promote red blood cell production and healthy blood flow.

With its impressive range of health benefits, sorghum is a powerful ancient grain deserving of a place in your modern diet.

Nutritional chart for Jowar:

Calories

329

Carbohydrate

72 gms

Protein

11 gms

Fat

3 gms

Fiber

7 gms

Calcium

0.01 mg

Iron

19% of DV

Thiamine

0.2 mg

Magnesium

165 mg

Potassium

350 mg

Riboflavin

0.1 mg

Vitamin E

0.5 mg

Sorghum in Your Kitchen: Delicious and Nutritious Recipes

Now that you're convinced of sorghum's health benefits, you might be wondering how to incorporate it into your meals. Fear not! Sorghum is a versatile and delicious grain that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are a couple of recipes to get you started:

1. Jowar Dosa: A South Indian Delight (Ready in 15 Minutes!)

Dosa, a popular South Indian crepe, can be easily made with sorghum flour. This recipe offers a beginner-friendly option that takes just 15 minutes to prepare.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups Sorghum flour

  • 3 cups water

  • 1 whole onion, chopped

  • 2 green chilies, chopped

  • 3-4 curry leaves

  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

  • Salt to taste

  • Oil for cooking

  • 1 cup yogurt

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine sorghum flour, salt, and yogurt. Mix well.

  2. Gradually add 2 cups of water, mixing continuously to avoid a runny batter.

  3. Add chopped onion, cumin seeds, chilies, and curry leaves.

  4. Whisk the batter thoroughly to ensure there are no lumps and air is incorporated into the mixture. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes.

  5. Add the remaining water to achieve a consistency similar to buttermilk.

  6. Heat a cast iron pan (preferred) and add a teaspoon of oil. Pour the batter onto the pan.

  7. Brush oil on top and cook on low to medium heat until crisp.

  8. Enjoy your hot Jowar Dosa with homemade coconut chutney or sambar.

2. Sweet Jowar Porridge: A Perfect Anytime Snack

Porridge isn't just for babies! This easy and delicious dish is perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth or as a healthy breakfast option.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Sorghum grains

  • ½ cup Sorghum flour

  • 2 cups milk (any type you prefer)

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

  • 2 tablespoons jaggery powder or sweetener (to taste)

  • ½ cup chopped dry fruits (cashews, pistachios, almonds, raisins, dates)

  • Water

  • 2-3 teaspoons ghee

Instructions:

  1. Wash the sorghum grains thoroughly to remove any dirt.

  2. In a pressure cooker, combine sorghum with 3 cups of water. Cook for 1-2 whistles and set aside.

  3. Heat ghee in a non-stick pan and add the sorghum flour. Roast it on low to medium heat for 2-3 minutes.

  4. Add chopped dry fruits and mix well.

  5. Now, add the cooked sorghum mixture with some water and cook for 10 minutes.

  6. Finally, add milk and your preferred sweetener. You can also add vanilla extract for extra flavor.

  7. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, and your sweet Jowar porridge is ready to serve!

These are just two examples of how you can incorporate sorghum into your diet. With its versatility and impressive nutritional profile, sorghum offers endless possibilities for delicious and healthy meals. So, experiment and discover your favorite ways to enjoy this ancient grain!

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