Discover the Power of Ragi Flour: 20 Nutritious Recipes for Healthy Living!
In recent years, ragi flour has gained significant attention for its numerous health benefits and versatility in cooking. This ancient grain, also known as finger millet, is packed with nutrients like calcium, iron, and fiber, making it an excellent addition to a balanced diet. With its mild flavor and coarse texture, ragi flour can be used to create a wide range of dishes, from sweet treats to savory meals.
From traditional Indian recipes to modern twists, we’ve compiled 20 delicious and nutritious ragi flour recipes that are sure to inspire your culinary creativity. Whether you’re looking for breakfast ideas, snack options, or meal solutions, this article has got you covered. So, let’s dive in and explore the wonderful world of ragi flour cooking!
Ragi Flour Pancakes with Honey Drizzle
Start your day with a nutritious twist on traditional pancakes using ragi flour, packed with fiber and nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ragi flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– Honey (for drizzling)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together ragi flour, sugar, and baking powder.
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Gradually add milk and mix until smooth batter forms.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on the surface.
6. Flip pancakes and cook for another minute.
7. Drizzle with honey to serve.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes (depending on number of pancakes)
Ragi Flour Roti with Spiced Vegetables
A traditional Indian flatbread recipe that combines the nutritional benefits of ragi flour with the flavor and texture of spiced vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ragi flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Spiced vegetables (see below)
Spiced Vegetables:
– 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium-sized carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ragi flour, whole wheat flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions.
5. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
6. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
7. Cook the rotis for 30-40 seconds on each side, until they are golden brown and puffed up.
8. Serve with spiced vegetables and your choice of accompaniments.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ragi Flour Banana Bread
A moist and delicious banana bread recipe that incorporates the nutty flavor of ragi flour, perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana, mashed
– 1 cup ragi flour (finger millet)
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed banana, sugar, ragi flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
3. Add milk, egg, and melted butter. Mix until smooth.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ragi Flour Cookies with Almonds
A crunchy and nutritious cookie recipe that combines the goodness of ragi flour with the nutty flavor of almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ragi flour
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together ragi flour, all-purpose flour, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter and granulated sugar to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Fold in chopped almonds.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Ragi Flour Dosa with Coconut Chutney
A nutritious and flavorful South Indian delicacy, Ragi Flour Dosa is a popular breakfast option. This recipe combines the nutty flavor of ragi flour with the creamy goodness of coconut chutney.
Ingredients:
For the dosa:
– 1 cup ragi flour
– 1/2 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3/4 cup lukewarm water
– Ghee or oil for greasing
For the chutney:
– 1 cup grated coconut
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
– Salt, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Mix ragi flour, besan, and salt in a bowl.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a smooth batter.
3. Heat a non-stick pan or dosa tava over medium heat.
4. Pour a ladle of batter onto the pan and spread evenly.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the edges start to curl.
6. Flip and cook for another minute.
For the chutney:
1. Blend coconut, onion, garlic, tamarind paste, and salt in a blender.
2. Add water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Serve the dosa with warm coconut chutney.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ragi Flour Pizza Base with Veggie Toppings
A healthier twist on traditional pizza, this recipe uses ragi flour to create a nutritious and delicious base topped with a variety of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ragi flour
– 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup lukewarm water
– Vegetable toppings (e.g., bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes)
– Cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine ragi flour, whole wheat flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add the olive oil and lukewarm water to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 2-3 portions, depending on desired pizza size.
5. Roll out each portion into a thin circle (approximately 1/8 inch thick).
6. Top with your favorite vegetables and cheese (if using).
7. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ragi Flour Porridge with Jaggery
A comforting and nutritious breakfast option, this ragi flour porridge with jaggery is a perfect way to start your day. Made with wholesome ingredients, it’s easy to prepare and can be served warm or at room temperature.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ragi flour
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
– 1 tablespoon jaggery powder
– Fresh coriander leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine ragi flour and water. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add salt and whisk well.
3. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
4. Remove from heat and stir in ghee and jaggery powder until dissolved.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with fresh coriander leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ragi Flour Idli with Sambar
A nutritious and flavorful breakfast or snack option, Ragi Flour Idli is a popular South Indian dish that pairs well with a savory Sambar. This recipe combines the goodness of ragi flour (finger millet) with the comfort of idlis and a flavorful Sambar.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ragi flour
– 1/2 cup curd
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Water, as needed
– For Sambar:
+ 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
+ 1 onion, chopped
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 tomato, diced
+ 1 teaspoon sambar powder
+ Salt, to taste
+ Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix ragi flour, curd, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add water to form a smooth batter.
2. Heat a non-stick pan or idli steamer. Pour the batter into individual idli molds or small cups. Steam for 10-12 minutes or until the idlis are cooked through.
3. For Sambar, sauté onions, garlic, and tomato in oil until they are soft. Add dal, sambar powder, and salt. Mix well. Add water as needed to achieve a thick consistency.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (10-12 minutes for idlis, 10-13 minutes for Sambar)
Ragi Flour Chapati with Ghee
A simple and delicious flatbread recipe from South India, Ragi Flour Chapati is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite curries or as a snack on its own.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ragi flour (finger millet)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Ghee, for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine ragi flour, salt, and baking soda.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to the dry ingredients and mix until a smooth dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions, depending on desired chapati size.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
6. Place a chapati in the pan and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until it starts to puff up and the edges start to curl.
7. Brush with ghee and flip the chapati over.
8. Cook for another 30-45 seconds, until the other side is lightly browned.
9. Serve warm with your favorite accompaniments.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch of chapatis
Ragi Flour Ladoo with Dates
A traditional Indian sweet treat made with ragi flour, dates, and nuts, these ladoos are a perfect snack for any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ragi flour (finger millet)
– 1/2 cup ghee or oil
– 1/4 cup chopped dates
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– Pinch of salt
– Cardamom powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the ragi flour and roast for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it turns golden brown.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Mix in the chopped dates, almonds, and salt.
5. Knead the mixture with your hands until a dough forms.
6. Divide into small portions and shape each into a ball (ladoo).
7. If desired, add a pinch of cardamom powder to each ladoo for extra flavor.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ragi Flour Smoothie with Mango
This smoothie is a perfect blend of nutritious ragi flour and sweet mango, making it an excellent snack or post-workout drink. The addition of yogurt and honey adds creaminess and a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons ragi flour
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine ragi flour, mango, and yogurt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Add honey and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
5. Pour into a glass and add ice cubes if preferred.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This is a quick and easy smoothie to prepare.
Enjoy your nutritious and delicious Ragi Flour Smoothie with Mango!
Ragi Flour Uttapam with Onion and Tomatoes
A delicious and nutritious flatbread recipe made with ragi flour, onions, and tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ragi flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– Salt, to taste
– Cooking oil or ghee, for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together ragi flour and water to form a smooth batter.
2. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
3. Brush the pan with a little cooking oil or ghee.
4. Pour 1/4 cup of the batter onto the pan and spread it evenly to form a circle.
5. Top with chopped onions, diced tomatoes, and a pinch of salt.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the edges start to curl.
7. Flip and cook for another minute, until golden brown.
8. Serve hot with your favorite chutney or raita.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ragi Flour Cake with Cocoa Frosting
Moist and flavorful cake made with ragi flour, perfect for a sweet treat. Top it off with a rich cocoa frosting for an added layer of decadence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ragi flour
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Cocoa frosting ingredients: 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together ragi flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cocoa Frosting:
1. Melt cocoa powder in heavy cream over low heat, stirring constantly.
2. Remove from heat and whisk in granulated sugar until dissolved.
3. Let cool to room temperature before spreading on cooled cake.
Ragi Flour Paratha with Mint Chutney
A simple and nutritious recipe that combines the benefits of ragi flour parathas with a refreshing mint chutney.
Ingredients:
For Ragi Flour Paratha:
– 2 cups ragi flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– Ghee or oil for brushing
For Mint Chutney:
– 1 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup green chilies
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Mix ragi flour and salt.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water and knead into a dough.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 portions, depending on desired thickness.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
5. Brush with ghee or oil and cook on a non-stick pan for 30 seconds on each side.
6. For mint chutney, blend all ingredients together until smooth.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ragi Flour Halwa with Cardamom
This traditional Indian dessert is a staple during festivals and special occasions. Ragi flour halwa with cardamom is a sweet treat that combines the nutty flavor of ragi with the warmth of cardamom.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ragi flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Chopped nuts or dried fruits for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the ghee in a deep pan over medium heat.
2. Add the ragi flour and roast until fragrant, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the halwa thickens.
5. Stir in the sugar and cardamom powder.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with chopped nuts or dried fruits if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Ragi Flour Noodles with Stir-Fried Veggies
A nutritious and flavorful dish that combines the goodness of ragi flour noodles with a colorful medley of stir-fried vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ragi flour noodles (cooked according to package instructions)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cooked noodles, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the wok. Stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Ragi Flour Crackers with Sesame Seeds
A crunchy and nutritious snack, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a side dish for your favorite soups and salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ragi flour (finger millet)
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ragi flour, whole wheat flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. Gradually add lukewarm water to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
5. Sprinkle sesame seeds evenly over the crackers.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crackers are golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ragi Flour Pasta with Creamy Sauce
A delicious twist on traditional pasta, this recipe combines the nutty flavor of ragi flour with a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 200g ragi flour pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 250ml milk
– 50g grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ragi flour pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the milk and stir to combine with the onion mixture. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine the cooked pasta with the creamy sauce and toss to coat.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ragi Flour Soup with Lentils
A hearty and comforting soup made with ragi flour, lentils, and aromatic spices, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups ragi flour
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 4 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– Ghee or oil, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine ragi flour and 2 cups of water. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, and salt. Stir well to combine.
4. Continue to simmer for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, with a drizzle of ghee or oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ragi Flour Energy Bars with Nuts
A nutritious and delicious snack, these energy bars are perfect for a quick pick-me-up or post-workout treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups ragi flour (finger millet)
– 1 cup dates, chopped
– 1/2 cup almonds, chopped
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together ragi flour and chopped dates until well combined.
3. Add chopped almonds, honey, coconut oil, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Press the dough into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover a world of healthy eating with 20 delicious and nutritious ragi flour recipes. From classic Indian dishes like Ragi Flour Roti with Spiced Vegetables and Ragi Flour Idli with Sambar, to international favorites like Ragi Flour Pizza Base with Veggie Toppings and Ragi Flour Pasta with Creamy Sauce, there’s something for everyone. Plus, try sweet treats like Ragi Flour Banana Bread and Ragi Flour Cookies with Almonds, or indulge in a guilt-free snack with Ragi Flour Crackers with Sesame Seeds. Whether you’re looking to boost your energy or simply enjoy a healthy meal, these ragi flour recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings while nourishing your body.
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