This dish is mildly spiced, aromatic, and packed with the nutty flavor of fresh coconut. It makes for a light yet satisfying lunch or dinner and pairs beautifully with any curry, chutney, or just plain curd.
🥘 Ingredients (Serves 2–3)
· Varagu (Kodo millet) – 1 cup
· Water – 2 cups
· Salt – to taste
· Freshly grated coconut – ½ cup
Tempering
· Coconut oil / ghee – 2 tbsp
· Mustard seeds – ½ tsp
· Urad dal – 1 tsp
· Chana dal – 1 tsp
· Green chilies – 2 (slit)
· Dry red chili – 1 (broken)
· Curry leaves – 6–8
· Hing (asafoetida) – a pinch
👩🍳 Method
1. Cook the Millet:
o Rinse varagu thoroughly 2–3 times.
o Add 2 cups water and cook in a pressure cooker (2 whistles) or in a pot until soft and fluffy.
o Fluff it up with a fork and spread on a plate to cool slightly.
2. Prepare Tempering:
o Heat coconut oil or ghee in a pan.
o Add mustard seeds; once they splutter, add urad dal and chana dal.
o Fry until golden brown.
o Add green chilies, red chili, curry leaves, and hing — sauté for a few seconds.
3. Add Coconut & Millet:
o Add the grated coconut and sauté for 1–2 minutes on low flame until aromatic (don’t brown it).
o Add the cooked varagu and salt.
o Mix gently until well combined.
4. Serve:
o Serve warm with papad, pickle, or curd for a complete meal.
💚 Health Benefits of Coconut Varagu Rice
✅ Gut-Friendly & Easy to Digest – Varagu millet is light, gluten-free, and great for digestion.
✅ Rich in Good Fats – Coconut provides healthy medium-chain fatty acids that support metabolism and brain health.
✅ Diabetes-Friendly – Both coconut and millet have a low glycemic index, keeping blood sugar levels stable.
✅ Weight Management – High in fiber, this dish keeps you full longer and prevents overeating.
✅ Heart health Support – Kodo millet is rich in magnesium and antioxidants that help regulate blood pressure and cholesterol.
✅ Cooling & Soothing – Coconut naturally cools the body, making this rice perfect for hot weather.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.
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