Celebrity Chef Anahita Dhondy Promotes Millets
Chef Anahita Dhondy talks about benefits of millets, sustainability and new book.

Celebrated chef and sustainability advocate Anahita Dhondy has been promoting the use of grains, particularly millets, in cooking since 2015. She believes that millets are good for the planet, farmer, and consumer, and has written a new book, The Grain Kitchen, to showcase their benefits.
Dhondy discovered the power of grains while studying and later experimented with different ingredients at SodaBottleOpenerWala around 2014-15. She was impressed by the nutrition, versatility, and texture of millets, and decided to popularize them.
In 2018, Dhondy spoke about millets at the United Nations, and since then, there has been a growing interest in these grains. The FAO declared 2023 as the year of the millet, which Dhondy sees as a significant recognition of their potential.
Dhondy has been working to bring grains to the forefront through events, festivals, and online initiatives like #MilletMonday, which features around 100 recipes to encourage people to cook with grains. She has also included international recipes in her book to showcase the versatility of millets.
The chef emphasizes the importance of incorporating a variety of grains into meals, citing the benefits of a balanced plate with diverse grains. She advises making changes slowly and thoughtfully, giving the body time to adapt.
Dhondy's work highlights the significance of millets in Indian cuisine and their potential to make a positive impact on the environment, farmers, and consumers. Her book, The Grain Kitchen, is a testament to her passion for promoting sustainable and nutritious food choices.
The growing interest in millets is a positive trend, and Dhondy's efforts have contributed to their increasing popularity. As people become more aware of the benefits of millets, they are likely to incorporate them into their diets, leading to a more sustainable and healthy food culture.
In the context of Indian cuisine, millets have been a part of traditional cooking for centuries. However, their popularity had declined in recent years, with the rise of more refined grains. Dhondy's work aims to revive the interest in millets and promote their use in modern cooking.
The benefits of millets are numerous, from their high nutritional value to their versatility in cooking. They are also environmentally friendly, requiring less water and pesticides compared to other grains. As consumers become more aware of the importance of sustainable food choices, millets are likely to play a significant role in shaping the future of Indian cuisine.
In conclusion, Anahita Dhondy's promotion of millets is a significant step towards promoting sustainable and nutritious food choices. Her work highlights the potential of millets to make a positive impact on the environment, farmers, and consumers, and her book, The Grain Kitchen, is a valuable resource for those looking to incorporate more grains into their diets.
The growing interest in millets is a positive trend, and it is likely to continue in the coming years. As people become more aware of the benefits of millets, they are likely to incorporate them into their diets, leading to a more sustainable and healthy food culture. This, in turn, will have a positive impact on the environment, farmers, and consumers, making millets a significant part of the future of Indian cuisine.
Frequently asked questions
What are the benefits of millets?
Millets are sustainable, nutritious, and versatile, making them a great addition to a healthy diet.
Why are millets important for the environment?
Millets require less water and pesticides compared to other grains, making them an environmentally friendly choice.