Navane Payasa | Foxtail Millet Pudding

Directions

1. Rinse and Cook the Millet
   Wash the foxtail millet thoroughly and soak it for 15 minutes (optional, but helps in faster cooking).
   In a pan or pressure cooker, add the millet with 1 ½ cups of water and cook until soft. (Pressure cook for 2 whistles or cook in an open pan for about 10 minutes).
2. Prepare the Payasa Base
   In a separate pan, heat the milk and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
   Add the cooked millet to the milk and mix well. Let it cook on a low flame for another 5 minutes.
3. Sweeten and Flavor
   Add jaggery and stir well until it dissolves completely. (If using coconut milk, add it at this stage and do not boil too much).
   Sprinkle cardamom powder and mix.
4. Tempering (Optional but Enhances Flavor)
   Heat ghee in a small pan, fry cashews and raisins until golden brown.
   Add this to the payasa and mix well.
5. Serving
   Serve warm or chilled as a delicious, nutritious dessert!