Millet Marvels: Banyard &Foxtail Tikki Treat

Abstract

Foxtail millet is one of the oldest cultivated millets in the world. It is a nutrient-dense, gluten-free, and drought-resistant super grain that thrives in arid climates. It originated from China and is popular in Asia and Africa, it is increasingly used as a healthy alternative to rice and wheat due to its high fiber and protein content. Barnyard millet is an ancient, fast-growing small-seeded cereal crop recognized as a "super grain" due to its exceptional nutritional profile. It is often used as a substitute for rice, particularly during religious fasting, because it is nutritious, light to digest, and naturally gluten-free. Traditionally, tikki is prepared using potatoes along with maida, rice flour, and corn flour. The study aimed to improve the nutritional quality of Tikki by incorporating nutrient rich foxtail millet and barnyard millet. Three different Tikki variants were prepared using various combinations of these ingredients. The present study aimed to develop millet-based tiki and evaluate its sensory and nutritional properties. Four formulations, including a control and three millet-incorporated samples, were prepared and analyzed. Sensory evaluation using a 9-point hedonic scale indicated good acceptability, with the foxtail millet sample (S1) scoring highest (7.78). Proximate analysis showed increased fiber (up to 11.21%) and ash content (5.23%) in millet-based samples, along with reduced fat content compared to control. The developed product demonstrates potential as a healthy, low glycemic snack option for health-conscious consumers.