Little Millet Ambali is a traditional South Indian drink that’s both refreshing and packed with probiotics. Made from little millet, this ancient grain adds a unique twist to your fermentation repertoire. Here’s a simple yet effective recipe to create this cooling, fermented beverage at home.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup little millet (also known as Samai or Sama)
- 4-5 cups water (adjust based on desired consistency)
- Optional: A pinch of roasted cumin powder or black salt for added flavor
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Clean cloth (for covering during fermentation)
- Blender
Instructions
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Prepare the Little Millet:
- Rinse 1/2 cup of little millet under cold water to remove any dust or impurities.
- Soak the millet in enough water for 6-8 hours or overnight. This helps soften the grains and makes them ready for cooking.
- Drain the soaked milled and pulse 2-3 times with half cup of water until desired consistency is achieved (you can blend it coarse or fine depending on your preference).
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Cook the Millet:
- Add about 4 cups of fresh water and cook over medium heat until the millet is soft and fully cooked. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally and add more water if necessary to prevent burning.
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Cool the Millet:
- Once the millet is cooked, allow it to cool to room temperature.
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Ferment the Millet:
- Transfer the cooled millet to a clean bowl or jar.
- Cover the bowl or jar with a clean cloth. Leave it in a warm, dark place (around 70-75°F or 21-24°C) for 4-6 hours, depending on the ambient temperature and how tangy you want your ambali.
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Season and Serve:
- Add salt to taste.
- For additional flavor, garnish it with tempering - mustard seeds, curry leaves and chilies. Consider mixing in a pinch of roasted cumin powder or black salt.
- Serve with dal, subzi and fresh curd.
Tips for Perfect Ambali
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker or thinner drink, adjust the amount of water added after fermentation.
- You can make it a little thick and replace your rice with ambali.
Troubleshooting
- If Ambali Is Too Sour: Reduce fermentation time for future batches or adjust the recipe according to your taste preference.
- If Ambali Is Too Thick: Simply add more water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Health Benefits
Little millet is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Fermenting it enhances its nutritional value, introducing beneficial probiotics that aid digestion and boost gut health. Ambali is not only a tasty beverage but also a nutritious addition to your diet.