How to Make Recipes With Ragi or Finger Millets

Ragi (finger millets) are tiny deep red pearls which can be consumed in several ways, to obtain its nutrient values. They are rich in calcium, protein, fibre and minerals. This wonder grain is known for its many health benefits. The Latin name of Ragi is Elusine Indica which is a traditional crop of South India. The villagers consider ragi as one of the superior foods, better than rice and wheat with its high nutritional values, and over centuries they consume ragi in their daily use. Ragi helps to stay filled for a longer time avoiding feeling hungry, fight ill-effects of heat during summer and is recommended cereal for diabetics.

Ragi is considered in various forms, and is beneficial for both young and old. Some of the main recipes are ragi mudde (balls), ragi kanji, ragi vada, ragi puttu, ragi rotti mixed with rice flour, ragi idli, ragi dosas, ragi sprouts in salads.

Ragi mudde is a popular item of Karnataka State in India. It is made with ragi powder. It is a highly nutritious item for achieving good health and strength. The other ingredients used in the preparation of ragi mudde are ragi powder, broken rice, water, and salt, to make less hard and smooth. Without the broken rice, the mudde may become little hard and difficult to consume.

Ragi puttu (also called as ragi funnel cake) – Using ragi powder, delicious ragi puttu can be made for breakfast. Though they may look dark in color the recipe is good for health. Ragi puttu is prepared in mixing with little water to mix the powder evenly and then cooked in a particular funnel mixed with coconut scrapings. Alongwith it, plantain or curry can used to get extra taste.

Ragi porridge – Ragi porridge is a tasty and healthy drink prepared with milk and sugar. It is a good nourishment and filling.

Ragi rotis – Using ragi powder, delicious ragi rotis can be prepared just like wheat chapathis or rice rotis. Coconut and onions can be added for extra taste in the preparation of ragi rotis.

Soups, and vegetable broth can be prepared using Ragi flour.

Halwa and Barfi can be made with Ragi powder.

Idlis and dosas can be made with ragi powder alone, or added with rice flour.

1 cup steamed ragi flour can be mixed with 1/2 cup of coconut scrapings, ½ cup jaggery or sugar powder and ½ tsp. of cardamom powder. Those who like the taste of ghee, a teaspoon of melted ghee can be added while mixing. It is a highly tasty and nutritious dish.

Ragi sprouts - Sprout the ragi grains and include them in salads.

In India, ragi is given to the kids before they are introduced to solid food because of its nutritional benefits. Kids usually enjoy ragi (finger millets) in the form of porridge cooked in milk, given in semi solid consistency.