Navagrain Cookies

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine all the different flours (foxtail millet, little millet, barnyard millet, finger millet, sorghum, pearl millet, whole wheat, chickpea, and oats), along with the baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of the ingredients.
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter (or coconut oil), brown sugar, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and egg (or flax egg). Mix until smooth and well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until a dough forms. If the dough is too dry, you can add a tablespoon or two of milk (or a non-dairy alternative) to achieve the right consistency.
5. Add Optional Ingredients:
   • Fold in any optional ingredients, such as chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits, for added flavor and texture.
6. Shape the Cookies:
   • Scoop out small portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the lined baking sheet and gently flatten them with your palm or the back of a spoon.
7. Bake the Cookies:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The cookies should still be slightly soft in the center when you take them out of the oven.
8. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The cookies will firm up as they cool.

Serving Suggestions

• Snack Time: These navagrain cookies make for a healthy snack that can be enjoyed any time of the day.
• Tea/Coffee Companion: Serve these cookies with your favorite tea or coffee for a wholesome treat.
• Breakfast: Pair these cookies with a smoothie or a bowl of yogurt for a quick and nutritious breakfast.
• Dessert: Serve them as a light dessert, possibly with a drizzle of honey or a scoop of ice cream.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. They will remain soft and flavorful.
• Refrigeration: To extend their shelf life, store the cookies in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to a week. Bring them to room temperature before serving, or warm them in the oven.
• Freezing: You can also freeze these cookies for up to 2 months. Store them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven.

Health Benefits of Navagrain Cookies

1. Rich in Nutrients: The combination of nine different grains provides a broad spectrum of essential nutrients, including fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals such as iron, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus.
2. Supports Heart Health: Many of the grains used in this recipe, like millet and oats, are known to promote heart health by lowering cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart disease.
3. Good for Digestion: The high fiber content helps in promoting digestion and preventing constipation. It also aids in maintaining a healthy gut.
4. Sustained Energy: The complex carbohydrates in the grains provide sustained energy, making these cookies a good choice for a mid-day snack or a pre-workout boost.
5. Gluten-Free Option: By omitting the whole wheat flour and using gluten-free alternatives, these cookies can easily be made gluten-free, making them suitable for people with gluten intolerance.
6. Low Glycemic Index: Many of the grains, like millet and sorghum, have a low glycemic index, making these cookies a good option for those managing blood sugar levels, such as people with diabetes.

Availability of Navagrain Ingredients

• Grocery Stores: Many of the grains used in this recipe, such as millet, sorghum, and chickpea flour, can be found in health food stores, specialty grocery stores, and Indian or Asian markets.
• Online: You can also find these grains and flours online through various retailers that specialize in organic or gluten-free products.
• Forms Available: These grains are available in different forms, such as whole grains, flours, or flakes. For this recipe, you’ll need the flours, which can also be made at home by grinding the grains.

Final Thoughts

Navagrain cookies are a powerhouse of nutrition and taste, combining the goodness of nine different grains. They are versatile and can be customized with various mix-ins, such as nuts, seeds, or dried fruits. With their rich nutritional profile, these cookies are an excellent choice for a healthy snack, breakfast, or even dessert.