Ragi, also known as finger millet, is a versatile and nutritious grain that can be incorporated into various dishes. In this blog, we explore 14 delicious ragi recipes perfect for dinner.
From Ragi pizza to Ragi chocolate cake, these recipes offer a creative twist on traditional meals. Read this blog to discover how to infuse your dinners with the health benefits and unique flavours of ragi, elevating your dining experience effortlessly.
14 Delicious Ragi Recipes for Dinner Everyone Will Love
Let’s read the best ragi recipes that you can savour and get the nutritional benefits as well.
1.Ragi Roti
Ragi Roti is a quintessential dish in Karnataka. It is a staple for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It pairs beautifully with chutney, dal, or sambar and is a nutritious alternative to wheat roti.
To start with preparation, mix ragi flour with chopped onions, grated carrots, a pinch of cumin seeds, and salt. Add water to form a soft dough. Roll out small portions into thin rotis and cook on a hot tawa.
Also Read: Read how to make Ragi Roti
2. Spicy Ragi Tacos with Fresh Salsa
Spicy ragi tacos with fresh salsa is a combination of earthy ragi flour with spicy flavors and vibrant salsa. Ragi’s nutritional benefits, combined with the freshness of the salsa, make this dish a healthy and flavorful option for dinner. You can experiment with different fillings and toppings to customize your ragi tacos to your liking.
3. Ragi and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This dish combines the goodness of ragi and whole wheat with a colourful array of fresh vegetables for a nutritious and flavorful meal. Sauté 1 cup ragi flour and whole wheat flour-coated veggies with a dash of cumin seeds and curry leaves for added aroma. This dish packs a punch with essential nutrients and is a delightful way to include cup ragi flour in your dinner routine. It can also make for a healthy breakfast option, keeping you full and energized for the day ahead.
4. Ragi Pancakes
Whip up a batch of flavorful, savory ragi pancakes for a nutrient-packed meal. Made from ragi flour, these pancakes are a delightful option for a satisfying dinner and to keep hunger pangs at bay. Packed with essential nutrients and boasting a low glycemic index, these pancakes are perfect for anyone on a weight loss journey. Enhance the flavour by adding aromatic ingredients like cumin seeds and coriander leaves.
5. Ragi Mushroom Risotto
Ragi Mushroom Risotto uses a creamy and flavorful twist on the classic risotto by incorporating ragi flour. This dish combines the earthy taste of mushrooms with the nuttiness of ragi, creating a wholesome and satisfying meal.
6. Hearty Ragi and Lentil Soup
Indulge in a warm bowl of hearty ragi and lentil soup brimming with essential nutrients. This comforting dish blends the goodness of ragi flour and protein-packed urad dal, offering a wholesome meal. The aromatic blend of cumin seeds, tbsp coriander, and curry leaves infuses a delightful flavour, perfect for a cosy night. This nourishing soup satisfies your taste buds and supports your health with its balanced combination of amino acids and fiber.
For a twist on this classic dish, add a crispy masala dosa on the side for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
7. Ragi Stuffed Bell Peppers
Ragi-stuffed bell peppers offer a nutritious twist on a classic dish. The goodness of ragi flour combined with the vibrant bell peppers creates a flavorful and filling meal. The blend of essential nutrients in ragi complements the bell peppers perfectly, making this dish a wholesome option for dinner. The recipe allows for creative variations by adding diverse spices or vegetables to cater to personal preferences.
8. Ragi Margherita Pizza
For a unique twist on a classic favourite, try the ragi Margherita pizza, a popular recipe from North Karnataka. The combination of ragi flour crust, fresh tomato sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and fragrant basil creates a flavorful and nutritious meal. This recipe not only satisfies your pizza cravings but also boosts your intake of essential nutrients, making it a perfect addition to our list of easy ragi recipes.
It’s a delightful way to incorporate ragi balls into your dinner routine, offering a delicious alternative to traditional pizza options.
9. Baked Ragi Falafel with Tahini Sauce
Baked Ragi Falafel with Tahini Sauce is a nutritious twist on a beloved Middle Eastern dish. The combination of ragi flour and chickpeas creates a delectable texture rich in protein and fiber. Baking instead of frying reduces the oil content without compromising on taste. The creamy tahini sauce adds a delightful tanginess that perfectly complements the falafel’s earthy flavors.
This recipe is a healthy and satisfying option for a flavorful dinner.
10. Ragi Spinach Quiche
This nutritious ragi spinach quiche is a delightful fusion of flavours and textures. It is packed with the goodness of ragi flour and fresh spinach; this dish offers a healthy twist to the classic quiche recipe. The earthy taste of ragi combined with the vibrant essence of spinach creates a savoury treat that is both satisfying and nourishing.
11. Ragi Coconut Curry with Steamed Rice
Ragi Coconut Curry with Steamed Rice is a flavorful and nourishing dish that combines the goodness of ragi flour with creamy coconut curry, a traditional dish popular in the southern states of India. This recipe satisfies your taste buds and provides essential nutrients for a balanced diet.
The aromatic blend of spices, such as cumin seeds, coriander leaves, and cardamom powder, enhances the dish, making it a delightful addition to your meal. Add 2 tbsp ghee for a richer and creamier texture. For a unique twist, try using ragi upma instead of rice for a healthier and heartier version of this dish.
12. Ragi Chocolate Cake for Dessert
This delightful dessert combines the goodness of ragi with the indulgence of chocolate, offering a healthier alternative to traditional cakes. The rich flavour of chocolate complements the nuttiness of ragi, making it a perfect way to satisfy your sweet cravings while reaping the benefits of this nutritious superfood.
13. Ragi Laddoo
Ragi laddoo, a delightful Indian sweet, combines the goodness of ragi flour with flavorful ingredients like coconut and cardamom powder. These nutritious treats offer a healthy twist to traditional desserts, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings while providing the benefits of finger millet.
Easy to make, ragi laddoos are a popular choice for guilt-free indulgence and are suitable for all ages.
Know how to make Ragi Laddoo in this blog.
14. Ragi Cutlets
Ragi cutlets are a delectable snack packed with nutrition. These cutlets combine the goodness of ragi flour with flavorful spices like coriander and curry leaves.
You add a healthy twist to a traditional snack by using ragi flour. The crispy exterior and soft inside make ragi cutlets a favourite among all age groups. Try pairing them with a tangy chutney for an extra burst of taste.
Health Benefits of Incorporating Ragi in Your Diet
Ragi, a powerhouse of nutrients, offers numerous health benefits when included in your diet. It is rich in fiber and helps digestion, regulating sugar levels with its low glycemic index.
It is also packed with essential amino acids, calcium, and iron. Its high calcium content promotes bone health, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet.
Incorporating ragi in various forms, like ragi porridge or ragi dosa, can enhance your well-being and support your weight loss journey. Here are the benefits that Ragi offers:
Rich in Fiber and Helps in Digestion
Ragi is rich in fiber and helps in digestion by promoting healthy bowel movements and preventing constipation. The high fiber content in ragi also helps in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, improving overall digestive health. The fiber in ragi slows down the digestion of carbohydrates, preventing rapid spikes in blood sugar levels and helping to keep them stable.
Additionally, incorporating dals like chana dal into ragi recipes can further enhance its fiber content and digestive benefits.
High Calcium Content for Bone Health
Ragi is a powerhouse of nutrients, especially calcium, crucial for maintaining bone health. Incorporating ragi into your meals can significantly contribute to your daily calcium intake, essential for strong bones and teeth. Calcium is vital for overall bone density and strength, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Ensuring an adequate calcium supply through ragi consumption can support long-term bone health and overall well-being.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Ragi Meals
To ensure your ragi meals turn out perfectly, start by toasting ragi flour before using it in recipes. This enhances the nutty flavour. When working with ragi flour, maintain the proportions specified in the recipe for the right texture.
For a quick and easy option, try making instant ragi dosa using ragi flour, rice flour, and curd. This crispy, no-grind dosa is a great choice for a quick breakfast or snack.
Best Practices for Cooking Ragi Flour
To get optimal results when cooking with ragi flour, it’s essential to roast the flour on low heat to remove any raw taste. This process enhances the flavour of your dishes.
Additionally, store ragi flour in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain its freshness and nutritional value. When using ragi flour in recipes, mix it well with other ingredients to ensure even distribution and prevent clumping.
These practices will help you create delicious and nutritious meals with ragi flour.
Creative Ways to Include Ragi in Any Recipe
Incorporate ragi flour creatively by blending it into smoothies or mixing it with spices for flavorful coatings. Experiment with finger millet flour in baking for a nutritious twist. Use ragi dosa batter to make innovative wraps or rolls.
Add ragi mudde crumbled into salads for a crunchy texture. Infuse traditional dishes with ragi flour to boost their nutritional value. Think outside the box by incorporating ragi millet into sauces or gravies, or try making a delicious ragi rotti (flatbread) for a unique touch to your meals.
Conclusion
With these 12 delectable ragi recipes, you can enjoy a flavorful and healthy dining experience. From Ragi Roti to Ragi Chocolate Cake for dessert, there’s a dish for every palate.
Don’t forget the health benefits – ragi helps with digestion, boosts bone health, and helps manage blood sugar levels. Make ragi a staple in your diet for a delicious and nutritious dining journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Ragi Be Eaten Every Day?
Ragi can be eaten every day as part of a balanced diet. Its high nutritional value, including fiber and calcium, makes it a healthy choice. Ensure variety in preparation to enjoy its benefits regularly.
Is Ragi Suitable for All Age Groups?
Ragi is suitable for all age groups due to its high nutritional value. From kids to the elderly, incorporating ragi in meals can provide essential nutrients like calcium and fiber, benefiting overall health.
How to Store Ragi Flour for Longevity?
Store ragi flour in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Ensure the lid is tightly sealed to prevent moisture. Label the container with the date of purchase. For extended freshness, consider refrigerating or freezing the flour.