Ponkh recipes | hurda recipes | 

Ponk, as it is popularly known in Surat, India and surrounding areas is a variety of roasted millet available only in this part of the world. Ponk is usually available only during colder winter months, from November through February. Peak season is December and January.

Healthy ponkh recipes

During a short time in the winter, the jowar or white millet seeds turn out very juicy and tender. Farmers keep watching out for this young seed, called ponkh, which is immediately harvested. 

Here is a Healthy Ponkh Snack, which requires no cooking. Just toss the tender seeds with a few seasonings and a dash of lemon juice, and you have a mouth-watering snack that none can resist. 

Healthy Ponkh Snack, No Cooking

Here is a Ponkh Chila, which is very different from the regular besan chila that you usually make. The addition of ponkh gives it a very nice, succulent mouth-feel. 

It is very important to cook these chilas on a high flame, and also to relish them immediately after preparation. 

Ponkh Chila Recipe

Ponkh snacks

One interesting way to cook ponkh is as bhajiyas. The ponkh is mixed into a batter with besan and seasonings and deep-fried till crisp. 

Ponkh Bhajiya, Hurda Snack

Here is a Ponkh Chila, which is very different from the regular besan chila that you usually make. The addition of ponkh gives it a very nice, succulent mouth-feel. 

It is very important to cook these chilas on a high flame, and also to relish them immediately after preparation. 

Health Benefits of Ponkh

• Ponk is commonly eaten with the hull, which retains the majority of the nutrients. 
• The plant is very high in fiber with a fairly high protein level as well. 
• The fiber in it will help in the slow release of sugar in the blood and also help control cholesterol levels. 
• Ponk is gluten-free, an attractive alternative for wheat allergy sufferers.
• It also is packed with a few minerals like iron, magnesium, phosphorus and zinc.