Ras el Hanout Millet

Get ready to embark on a flavor-packed journey with our Ras el Hanout Millet—a Moroccan-inspired dish that celebrates the delightful combination of millet and rich ras el hanout spice blend. This quick and easy pilaf-like creation showcases the versatility of millet, making it shine like never before. With a blend of exotic spices, sweet golden raisins, and hearty chickpeas, this dish is sure to impress your taste buds.

Ras el hanout, with its vibrant mix of coriander, turmeric, cardamom, and more, adds an authentic Moroccan touch that elevates the millet to a whole new level. As a bonus, this recipe is soy-free and gluten-free, making it a wonderful option for those with dietary restrictions.

Pair this aromatic dish with a lightly dressed red cabbage salad for a magnificent dining experience. Let’s dive into the recipe and savor the tantalizing flavors!

YIELDS: This recipe yields 4 servings

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/2 cup (110 g) dry millet, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup (235 ml) vegetable broth
• 1 1/2 cups (246 g) cooked chickpeas
• 1/4 cup (40 g) golden raisins (not packed) or (36 g) dried black currants
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) toasted sesame oil
• 1 1/4 cups (140 g) finely grated carrot (about 2 medium carrots)
• 6 tablespoons (35 g) chopped scallion (white and green parts)
• 1 large clove garlic, grated or pressed
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ras el hanout
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, to taste (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt, to taste
• Sumac, for garnish (or freshly grated zest from 1 large organic lemon)
• Fresh cilantro, mint, or parsley leaves, for garnish
• Chopped or whole pistachios, for garnish (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. If you prefer even more depth of flavor, start by toasting the millet in a skillet. (See page 8 for toasting instructions.) Then, combine the toasted millet and vegetable broth in a large skillet. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat, cover with a lid, and let it simmer until the liquid is absorbed (approximately 15 minutes). Remove the skillet from the heat and let it stand for 2 minutes. Fluff the millet with a fork and set it aside.
2. While the millet is cooking, combine the cooked chickpeas, golden raisins, toasted sesame oil, finely grated carrot, chopped scallion, grated or pressed garlic, ras el hanout spice blend, red pepper flakes (if using), and coarse kosher salt in another large skillet.
3. Sauté the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring often, until the scallions soften slightly and the mixture becomes fragrant (about 5 minutes).
4. Gently fold the cooked millet into the chickpea mixture. Continue to cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure everything is well combined.
5. The Ras el Hanout Millet can be served immediately, or you can let it stand at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld further.
6. Right before serving, garnish each portion with a pinch of sumac (or lemon zest), fresh cilantro, mint, or parsley leaves, and chopped or whole pistachios (if desired).

Get ready to savor the enticing flavors and enticing aromas of this Ras el Hanout Millet, perfect for a wholesome and exotic family meal. Elevate your dining experience with this delightful blend of millet and Moroccan spices and enjoy the deliciousness of this plant-based dish. Bon appétit!