Ingredients

• Kodri (Foxtail Millet): 1 cup
• Chickpea flour (Besan): 1 cup
• Rice flour: 2 tbsp
• Curd (yogurt): ½ cup
• Ginger-green chili paste: 1 tsp
• Turmeric powder: ½ tsp
• Red chili powder: ½ tsp
• Garam masala: 1 tsp
• Baking soda: ½ tsp
• Lemon juice: 1 tbsp
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped: 2 tbsp
• Salt: To taste
• Oil: 2 tbsp (for batter) + 2 tbsp (for tempering)

For tempering:

• Mustard seeds: 1 tsp
• Cumin seeds: 1 tsp
• Sesame seeds: 1 tbsp
• Hing (asafoetida): A pinch
• Curry leaves: 8-10

Preparation

Wash the kodri (foxtail millet) thoroughly and soak it in water for 6-8 hours or overnight.

Drain the water and set it aside.

In a mixing bowl, combine the soaked and drained kodri with chickpea flour (besan), rice flour, curd, ginger-green chili paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, salt, and lemon juice.

Add enough water to make a thick batter (similar to a cake batter consistency). Mix everything thoroughly.

Let the batter rest for 15-20 minutes to allow the millet to absorb the flavors.

In a small pan, heat 2 tbsp of oil. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, sesame seeds, and hing. Let them splutter.

Add curry leaves and sauté for 30 seconds.

Pour this tempering into the prepared batter and mix well.

Heat a non-stick or cast-iron pan or a handva maker. Grease it lightly with oil.

Pour the batter into the pan and spread it evenly. Cover with a lid and cook on low-medium heat for 15-20 minutes or until the bottom is golden brown.

Flip the handva carefully and cook the other side for another 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

If you prefer a more uniform cook, you can cook it in the oven at 180°C for about 20-25 minutes after flipping.

Once cooked, remove from the pan and cut it into pieces.

Serve hot with green chutney or tamarind chutney.

Servings: 4-6

Notes

1. Kodri is high in fiber, gluten-free, and rich in magnesium, which helps maintain blood sugar levels and supports digestive health. The combination with chickpea flour provides a protein-rich meal.
2. You can add vegetables like grated carrot, bottle gourd, or peas to the batter for additional flavor and nutrition.