Little Millet
Panicum sumatrense
Common name: Kutki / Samai
The iron-rich tiny grain — a perfect rice substitute with high fiber content
Names in Indian Languages
| Language | Name |
|---|---|
| Hindi | कुटकी (Kutki) |
| Tamil | சாமை (Samai) |
| Telugu | సామలు (Samalu) |
| Kannada | ಸಾಮೆ (Same) |
| Malayalam | ചാമ (Chama) |
| Marathi | वरी (Vari) / साव (Sav) |
| Bengali | সামা (Sama) |
| Gujarati | ગજરો (Gajro) / મોરૈયો (Moraiyo) |
| Odia | ସୁଆଁ (Suan) |
| Punjabi | ਸਵਾਂਕ (Swank) |
| Sanskrit | श्यामाक (Shyamaka) |
Nutrition Profile
Per 100 g, raw grain. Source: ICMR-NIN IFCT 2017 — Indian Food Composition Tables, National Institute of Nutrition, Hyderabad
Calories
341kcal
Protein
7.7g
Fiber
7.6g
Calcium
17mg
Iron
9.3mg
Glycemic Index
52(low)
| Nutrient | Amount per 100 g |
|---|---|
| Calories | 341 kcal |
| Protein | 7.7 g |
| Fat | 4.7 g |
| Carbohydrates | 67 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.6 g |
| Calcium | 17 mg |
| Iron | 9.3 mg |
| Zinc | 3.7 mg |
| Phosphorus | 220 mg |
| Magnesium | 133 mg |
| Potassium | 129 mg |
Little Millet vs. White Rice
Health Benefits
Very high iron content
Well EstablishedLittle millet contains 9.3mg iron per 100g, one of the highest among all millets and cereals. This makes it valuable for preventing and managing iron-deficiency anemia.
Source: ICMR-NIN IFCT 2017
Good fiber source for digestive health
Well EstablishedWith 7.6g fiber per 100g, little millet supports healthy digestion, regular bowel movements, and may help lower cholesterol levels.
Source: ICMR-NIN IFCT 2017
Low GI suitable for diabetics
Supported by ResearchWith a glycemic index of approximately 52, little millet provides slow and steady glucose release, making it suitable for diabetes management.
Source: International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition
Rich in antioxidants
Preliminary EvidenceContains phenolic compounds and flavonoids that may contribute to antioxidant activity, though more research is needed to fully characterize these benefits.
Source: Journal of Food Science and Technology
Ayurvedic Properties
Rasa (Taste)
Madhura (sweet), Kashaya (astringent)
Virya (Potency)
Sheeta (cool)
Vipaka (Post-digestive)
Madhura
Guna (Quality)
Laghu (light)
Dosha Effects
vata
Neutral
pitta
Decreases
kapha
Neutral
Therapeutic Uses
- Suitable for all body types due to balanced dosha effect
- Cooling nature beneficial in summer and Pitta conditions
- Supports gentle digestion due to Laghu (light) quality
- Traditionally used in diets for convalescence
Classical Reference: Bhavaprakasha Nighantu, Dhanya Varga
Contraindications (Ayurvedic)
- Minimal contraindications due to balanced nature
- May need soaking to reduce antinutrient content
Ayurvedic information presented here is derived from classical texts for educational purposes. It is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner or healthcare provider before making dietary changes based on Ayurvedic principles.
How to Cook Little Millet
Water Ratio
1:2.5
Soaking Time
30 minutes
Cooking Time
15 minutes
Best Substitute For
Rice (closest substitute among millets)
Texture
Very similar to rice, slightly sticky
Flavor Profile
Mild, neutral
Tips
- 1.Soak for 30 minutes and rinse well before cooking
- 2.Cook exactly like rice — it is the easiest millet to transition to
- 3.Makes excellent lemon rice, pulao, and biryani substitutes
- 4.Can be used for idli and dosa batter mixed with urad dal
- 5.Its neutral taste makes it versatile for both savory and sweet dishes
Cultivation
Major States (India)
Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Odisha
Global Regions
South Asia (primarily India), Southeast Asia (Myanmar, Sri Lanka)
Growing Season
Kharif (June-October)
Water Requirement
300-500mm rainfall
Soil Type
Sandy loam to red laterite soils; grows well in marginal lands
Days to Harvest
75-90 days
History
Region of Origin
Eastern Ghats region, India
Domestication Period
Ancient times (exact period uncertain)
Archaeological Evidence
Native to India with long history of cultivation in tribal areas of central and southern India. Limited archaeological records but ethnobotanical evidence supports ancient cultivation.
Spread Pattern
Domesticated in the Eastern Ghats region of India and remained primarily an Indian crop, grown extensively in tribal and rain-fed farming regions.
Cultural Significance
Little millet is an important crop for tribal communities in central India. In Tamil Nadu, Samai rice is a popular everyday millet preparation. It is also significant in Navratri fasting traditions in some regions.
Side Effects & Precautions
Bloating without soaking
May cause bloating if not soaked before cooking. Soaking for at least 30 minutes is recommended to improve digestibility.
Antinutrient content
Contains phytates (antinutrients) that may reduce mineral absorption. Soaking, sprouting, or fermenting significantly reduces phytate levels.
Recipes with Little Millet
Sources
- Longvah T, Ananthan R, Bhaskarachary K, Venkaiah K (2017). Indian Food Composition Tables 2017.
Disclaimer: This content is created with the assistance of AI and is intended for educational purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, information may contain errors or be incomplete. Always do your own research and consult qualified professionals (nutritionists, doctors, agricultural experts) before making decisions based on this content. This website does not provide medical, nutritional, or agricultural advice.