2023 has been hailed as the Year of the Millet! We decided to shine a light on the remarkable qualities of this ancient grain. Millet is a nutritional superhero promoting pH balance in the body. Packed with essential minerals like magnesium and calcium, millet's alkaline nature can help counteract acidic foods, assisting the body in achieving a harmonious pH.
Ever think of your body as having a 'mood'? Well, it does, in a way! It's called the pH level—short for potential hydrogen. This scale spans from 0 (highly acidic) to 14 (intensely alkaline), with our body's ideal state leaning towards a mildly alkaline mark of 7.4.
This balance is essential for the optimal functioning of cellular processes and metabolic reactions. An imbalance, even if slight, can disturb various bodily functions, potentially leading to health issues over time.
Apart from its alkaline properties and mineral content, here are two other impressive health perks of millet:
Rich in Fiber: Millet is a good source of dietary fiber and plays a significant role in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels and stabilizing blood sugars, which can be particularly beneficial for those with diabetes or those at risk.
Antioxidant Properties: Millet contains powerful antioxidants like quercetin, curcumin, ellagic acid, and other beneficial catechins. These compounds help fight oxidative stress caused by free radicals in the body.
Oxidative stress is linked to a variety of chronic diseases, including cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders.
So, adding a healthy serving of millet to your meal plan can provide a protective shield against the damaging effects of oxidative stress.
Ready to give millet a spot on your menu? just better.® Spicy Millet Patties are perfect for burger night or as the main attraction served with roasted veggies. Or, try topping your next salad with the zesty flare of a just better.® Spicy Millet Patty!
Recipe of the Week: just better.® Spicy Millet Patties
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked millet
6 Tablespoons of just better.® prebiotic fiber
1 cup finely chopped vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, spinach, parsley and onions work well)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 jalapeno pepper, finely diced (remove seeds for less heat)
1 egg (or a flaxseed egg for a vegan option)
1/2 cup ground millet flour
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Avocado oil, for brushing
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Combine the cooked millet, finely chopped vegetables, garlic, jalapeno, and spices in a large bowl.
Mix in the egg and just better.® prebiotic fiber until well combined.
Slowly add the millet flour, stirring until the mixture holds together.
Shape the mixture into patties and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Lightly brush the tops of the patties with avocado oil.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown on both sides.
Make Ahead and Freezing:
If you'd like to make these patties ahead of time, simply shape them and place them on a tray lined with parchment paper.
Freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
They can be baked from frozen; just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.
Embracing millet is more than just a trend; it's a step back to our roots, bringing ancient wisdom to our modern tables. just better.® Spicy Millet Patties offer a flavorful twist to your regular meals while providing a healthy fiber boost! Perfect for meal prepping or a make-together family dinner, they're a tribute to millet's versatility and unmatched nutritional value. We hope you’ll join us in celebrating the Year of the Millet!
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