Little Millet (Samai)

Little Millet, also known as Samai, is a dependable crop due to its early maturity and resistance to unfavorable agro-climatic conditions like extreme drought and water logging. It is a traditional crop of Karnataka, grown throughout India, and is less focused on by plant breeders. The plant ranges from 30 to 90 cm in height, with panicles of 14 to 40 cm. Little Millet is usually mixed with other millets, pulses, and oilseeds and has smaller seeds than regular millet. It is typically consumed like rice and can be substituted in any recipe that calls for regular rice.

Millets are a natural source of iron and protein. Their high lecithin content and ease of digestion make them ideal for boosting the neurological system. Millets are rich in calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, zinc, and B vitamins such as niacin, B6, and folic acid. Being gluten-free, millets are suitable for those who are gluten intolerant, although not recommended for leavened bread.