Millet Loaf

Millet it a grain mostly commonly associated with bird feed. But, it is also a highly nutritious whole grain with nutritional qualities much like wheat. This is good news for those who are celiac and must avoid gluten. Delicious slow-cooked on stove top like breakfast cereal, or ground into flour (called Bajari in western India), it is versatile and inexpensive. Those with gluten sensitivities must avoid wheat, barley, rye, and oats. There are not many whole grains left, and whole grains are highly nutritious and important in the human diet. Millet is rich in B vitamins, especially niacin, B6 and folacin, calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium and zinc. Therefore, I am always trying to think of new foods or new ways to incorporate whole grains in our family meals. Yesterday afternoon I got busy in the kitchen an invented a loaf that I call "Millet Loaf --- Not Just for the Birds". You might prefer to think of it as a fake meat loaf, but don't let that idea fool you. This is definately 'real' food! The loaf was savory and enjoyed by all. This recipe is a keeper! Here's the recipe:

Millet Loaf --- Not Just for the Birds

2 cups Brazil nuts, ground in blender
4 1/2 cups tomatoes (canned or tomato sauce)
2 medium onions, cut into chunks
4 Tbsp. olive oil
2 tsp. salt
2 Tbsp. Italian Seasoning
2 Tbsp. Bragg's Liquid Aminos
2 Tbsp. Bill's Best Chicknish
4 garlic cloves, pressed
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
4 cups carrots, grated
1 cup parsley, fresh
6 cups millet, freshly cooked (2 cups dry in 6 cups of water)
1 cup olives, chopped

1. Bring water to a boil. Add uncooked millet. Reduce heat to 'warm' and cover. Cook until millet is fluffy and tender, about 30 minutes.

2. Grind Brazil nuts in blender (may substitute raw cashews). Set aside.

3. Blend tomatoes until smooth. Set aside. Grate carrots and set aside. Chop parsley and add to carrots.

4. Saute' onions in olive oil.

5. In large bowl, mix millet, nuts, tomatoes, sauteed onions, olives, grated carrots, and chopped parsley. Mix in seasonings.

6. Place in a large, low, prepared casserole dish. Do not use a deep casserole. Place in preheated 375 degree F. oven and bake for 1 hour 15 minutes. Top will be crusty and crunchy. Delicious served with catsup or a homemade gravy.

*Bragg's Liquid Aminos can be substituted with soy sauce or tamari. Bill's Best Chicknish is a vegan chicken-style seasoning and is available at most health food stores.