Introduction
For generations, our grandmothers in Tamil Nadu have relied on millets (சிறுதானியம்) to prepare wholesome, filling meals. But over time, polished rice and maida took over our plates. Now, with health and wellness coming back into focus, people are rediscovering the types of millets that not only keep us strong but also connect us back to our roots.
Let’s explore the different types of millets and see how they fit perfectly into our Tamil kitchen—from idlis and dosas to pongal and puttu!
1. Finger Millet (Ragi / கேழ்வரகு)
Ragi is a household name in Tamil Nadu. Whether it’s ragi kali served with fish curry in villages or ragi dosa for an easy breakfast in cities, this millet is loved by all.
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Health Benefits: Rich in calcium (great for kids and the elderly), good for diabetes management.
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Best Uses: Ragi mudde, dosa, porridge, and puttu.
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Buy our product - Finger Millet (Ragi / கேழ்வரகு)
2. Foxtail Millet (Thinai / திணை)
Thinai has a proud place in Sangam literature and was once the staple grain for Tamils. Today, health-conscious families are bringing it back to the dining table.
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Health Benefits: High in iron, helps improve immunity.
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Best Uses: Thinai pongal, upma, laddu, or even as a substitute for rice.
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Buy our product - Foxtail Millet (Thinai / திணை)
3. Pearl Millet (Kambu / கம்பு)
Come summer in Tamil Nadu, nothing beats a glass of kambu koozh served in roadside shops—it cools the body and keeps you energized.
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Health Benefits: Excellent for gut health, keeps you hydrated, rich in protein.
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Best Uses: Kambu koozh, rotis, dosas, and porridge.
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Buy our product - Pearl Millet (Kambu / கம்பு)
4. Little Millet (Samai / சாமை)
Samai is small in size but big in benefits. For those who want to cut down on polished rice, samai is the perfect alternative.
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Health Benefits: Light on the stomach, diabetic-friendly.
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Best Uses: Samai upma, lemon samai rice, curd samai.
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Buy our product - Little Millet (Samai / சாமை)
5. Kodo Millet (Varagu / வரகு)
Varagu is a hidden gem among millets. It is filling yet light and easy to cook.
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Health Benefits: Helps in weight management, rich in antioxidants.
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Best Uses: Varagu pongal, pulao, and dosa.
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Buy our product - Kodo Millet (Varagu / வரகு)
6. Barnyard Millet (Kuthiraivali / குதிரைவாலி)
Popular as a fasting food, kuthiraivali is a quick-cooking millet that tastes similar to broken rice.
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Health Benefits: Low in calories, great for digestion.
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Best Uses: Kuthiraivali pongal, sweet payasam, or upma.
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Buy our product - Barnyard Millet (Kuthiraivali / குதிரைவாலி)
Conclusion – Why Tamil Nadu Needs Millets Again
From kambu koozh on hot afternoons to ragi kali served with village-style curries, Tamil Nadu has always had a rich millet culture. Rediscovering these types of millets is not just about health—it’s about bringing back our traditions, supporting local farmers, and living in tune with nature.
So next time you plan your meals, add a touch of millet—your body, your family, and even our Tamil soil will thank you!
Order fresh Millets online today at MilletMarket.com and take the first step towards a healthier tomorrow.
