Mandua (Finger Millet)

Mandua (Ragi) is the staple grain of the hardworking hill people. Known as the 'Black Gold' of Uttarakhand, this millet grows easily in poor soil and requires little water, making it the perfect crop for the mountains. In the past, it was considered a 'poor man's food', but today it is hailed as a superfood. Pahadi farmers start their day with Mandua Roti, which gives them the sustained energy to climb steep slopes and work in the fields for hours without hunger. It has a coarse texture and a rustic, nutty flavor.