Millet

Millet in the UK: Where to Buy, What to Choose, and How to Cook It

Why millet is suddenly on so many shopping lists

Have you noticed millet popping up on supermarket shelves and health-store displays across the UK? It’s not a fad — millet is a resilient, versatile grain with a mild, nutty flavor that slips into breakfasts, salads, breads, and even puddings with ease. Shoppers are drawn to its nutrition profile and its role as a gluten-free alternative to wheat and barley. If you’re curious about where to buy millet, how much you should expect to pay, and what to do with it in the kitchen, you’re in the right place.

Health benefits at a glance

Millet is packed with fibre, plant protein, and a range of minerals that support heart health and digestion. It’s naturally gluten-free, which makes it a go-to for anyone avoiding gluten. Compared with some refined grains, millet offers a steady release of energy, helping you stay full between meals. Think of it as a humble supergrain — not flashy, but quietly effective.

Types of millet you can buy in the UK

Not all millet is the same. When shopping, you’ll see a handful of varieties, each with a slightly different texture and flavor. Knowing the differences helps you choose the right millet for porridge, pilafs, or baking.

Finger millet (ragi)

Finger millet, also known as ragi, has a deep, earthy taste and is often sold as a flour or small grains. It’s especially popular in traditional recipes and is great for making dense, nutritious porridges or flatbreads. If you’re experimenting with millet flour, finger millet is a robust choice that adds colour and body to baked goods.

Pearl millet

Pearl millet tends to be lighter and a bit fluffier after cooking than some other varieties. It’s a good all-rounder for savory dishes like pilafs, stews, and grain salads. Pearl millet is often sold hulled, which means it cooks faster and has a milder flavor.

Proso and foxtail millet

Proso and foxtail millet are small-seeded types that cook quickly and have subtle flavors. They’re ideal when you want a grain that takes on other ingredients in a dish rather than competing with them. Expect them to behave like a cross between quinoa and couscous in many recipes.

Where to buy millet in the UK: top stores to check

From supermarket chains to specialist health stores, the UK has plenty of places to buy millet. Below I’ve rounded up where to look, what to expect, and some quick tips for hunting down the best value.

Tesco

Tesco often stocks millet in its health-food or world-food aisles. You can find both whole millet and milled varieties, usually in 8 oz or 16 oz bags, which are handy for first-time buyers. Tesco’s own-brand options tend to be affordable and convenient for weekly shops, and they sometimes offer organic lines too.

Sainsbury’s

Sainsbury’s typically carries millet in its free-from section and occasionally in the bulk shelf area. Pack sizes around 16 oz appear regularly, and you might spot specialised millet flours for baking. Look for promotions during seasonal health pushes if you want to stretch your budget.

Asda and Morrisons

Both Asda and Morrisons have been expanding their ranges of grains and pulses. You’ll often find millet next to other cereals like quinoa and bulgur wheat. These stores can be particularly good value, offering 1 lb packs at competitive prices — ideal if you’re trying millet for the first time without committing to bulk quantities.

Waitrose and Ocado

For higher-end or organic millet, Waitrose and Ocado are reliable choices. They tend to stock a wider selection of specialty and organic brands, including single-origin and ethically sourced options. Packaging sizes can range from 8 oz to 2 lb bags for pantry staples, so you can pick what suits your household size.

Health food stores: Holland & Barrett, Planet Organic, Real Foods

If you want specialty millets, flours, or certified organic products, head to Holland & Barrett, Planet Organic, or independent wholefood sellers like Real Foods. These stores are great for sourcing less common varieties and for getting advice on sprouting, milling, or baking with millet. Pack sizes often include 8 oz, 16 oz, and larger bulk options.

Discount supermarkets: Lidl and Aldi

Lidl and Aldi sometimes feature millet in their rotating health-food ranges at very attractive prices. These lines sell out quickly, so if you spot millet on the shelf, it’s a good idea to grab a pack. Expect compact 8 oz or 16 oz packs aimed at trial buyers.

Online marketplaces: Amazon UK and specialist online retailers

Amazon UK and specialist retailers give you the widest choice, from bulk 2 lb sacks to specialty millets like kodo or barnyard millet. Online shopping is great for comparing prices per ounce and reading user reviews. If you want certified organic or unusual millet types, online is often the fastest route.

Millet price expectations and how to find the best deals

One of the first things shoppers ask is “How much does millet cost?” Prices vary according to brand, organic certification, and pack size. Here’s a practical way to think about it so you get the best value for your cupboard.

Typical prices and pack sizes

In mainstream supermarkets, you’ll commonly see 8 oz and 16 oz packs. Expect to pay less per ounce for larger quantities: a 16 oz bag generally represents better value than an 8 oz trial pack, and a 2 lb bulk pack will be cheapest per ounce. Keep an eye out for multibuy deals and online discounts — they can shave a good chunk off your total cost.

How to choose quality millet

Choosing good millet isn’t complicated, but a few checks will ensure you get a product that cooks well and stores nicely. Look for clear ingredient lists, minimal additives, and an expiry date that gives you several months in the pantry.

Organic vs conventional

Organic millet removes one more variable if you’re concerned about pesticides. It’s often slightly pricier, but for many shoppers the peace of mind is worth it. If you buy conventional millet, storing it properly and rotating your stock will help maintain freshness.

Hulled vs unhulled

Hulled millet cooks faster and has a finer texture, while unhulled millet retains more of its fibre but takes longer to cook. Most UK supermarkets sell hulled millet because it’s ready for quick use; specialist stores may stock unhulled varieties for traditional recipes or long-term storage.

Cooking with millet: easy recipes and measurements

Millet is one of those grains that rewards a little experimentation. It absorbs flavors well and fits morning to night meals. Here are a few simple ideas and measurements to get you started.

Basic stovetop millet (fluffy)

Rinse 1 cup of millet under cold water, then toast in a dry pan for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Add 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt, bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer and cover for about 15 to 20 minutes until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and serve like rice. This method gives a light, separate grain texture that’s perfect for salads or as a side.

Creamy millet porridge

For breakfast, use 1 cup of millet and 3 cups of milk or a milk substitute, simmering gently for 20 to 25 minutes until soft and creamy. Sweeten with a drizzle of honey, cinnamon, and chopped fruit. If you like a pudding-like porridge, increase the liquid by an extra 1/2 cup.

Millet pilaf with vegetables

Sauté diced onion, carrot, and peppers in oil, then add 1 cup of rinsed millet and 2 cups of stock. Cover and cook for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir through herbs and toasted nuts before serving for a colourful side or main that keeps well for lunches.

Storing millet for maximum freshness

Storage is key to keeping millet tasting great. Because it’s a whole grain, millet can develop off-flavors if exposed to air, heat, or moisture for long periods.

Short-term and long-term storage tips

For everyday use, keep millet in a sealed, airtight container in a cool, dark cupboard. For long-term storage, place millet in sealed jars or food-safe containers and store in the refrigerator or freezer. A sealed 1 lb bag opened and transferred to a jar will stay fresher much longer than leaving the original packaging open.

Millet in special diets: gluten-free, vegan, and beyond

If you follow a gluten-free or vegan diet, millet is a helpful pantry staple. It’s naturally free from gluten and works well as a base for plant-based meals, adding both texture and protein.

Substituting millet for rice or oats

Millet can often substitute for rice in side dishes and for oats in cooked breakfasts. Cooking times and liquid ratios differ slightly, so experiment with small batches until you find the texture you prefer. Millet’s neutral taste makes it a flexible swap in many recipes.

How millet compares to other popular grains

Curious how millet stacks up against quinoa, rice, or oats? Millet is comparable in protein and fibre to many of these grains, but it offers a unique balance of mild flavor and versatility that makes it especially useful when you want a blank canvas in dishes.

Nutrition and culinary roles

Compared with quinoa, millet is often cheaper and more neutral in taste; compared with rice, it tends to be firmer and nuttier. It’s an excellent grain for both savoury and sweet dishes, and because it’s inexpensive, it’s a great option for everyday meals.

Final tips for shopping and cooking millet

When you shop, think about how often you’ll use millet. If it’s a weekly staple, buy a 1 lb or 2 lb pack to save money. If you’re trying millet for the first time, an 8 oz trial pack is a low-risk way to experiment. In the kitchen, toast the grains briefly before cooking to boost flavour, and remember that millet pairs beautifully with bold spices, roasted vegetables, and citrusy dressings.

Millet is one of those pantry ingredients that quietly transforms simple meals into something comforting and nutritious. Whether you grab a pack at your local supermarket or order a bulk bag online, you’ll find it’s an adaptable grain that deserves a place in the cupboard.

Ready to shop? Look for familiar names like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda, Morrisons, Waitrose, Ocado, Holland & Barrett, Planet Organic, Lidl, Aldi, and online marketplaces to compare varieties, pack sizes, and prices. Happy cooking!