Ragi Malt is a nutritious and wholesome drink, popular in South India, made from ragi flour (finger millet or nachni atta). It is known for its health benefits, including being rich in calcium, iron, and dietary fibre. Ragi malt is prepared by cooking Ragi with Water or Milk. You can make Ragi Malt sweet or savoury as per your preference. It is also called Ragi Java and ragi Porridge.
Here's the recipe for making sweet Ragi Malt, a simple and nutritious gluten-free breakfast option:
Ingredients:
- Ragi Flour: 3 tablespoons
- Water: 1 cup
- Milk: 1 cup (can use a dairy-free alternative)
- Jaggery (or sugar): 1.5 tablespoons, adjust to taste
- Cardamom Powder: ¼ teaspoon
- Grated Coconut (optional): 1 tablespoon
- Dry Fruits and Nuts (like almonds, cashews): for garnish. Use the nuts of your choice.
Instructions:
Prep Time: 12-15 mins
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Prepare the Ragi Mixture:
- In a small bowl, mix the Ragi flour with a 3/4 cup of water to make a lump-free paste.
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Cook the Ragi:
- Heat the remaining water (1/4 cup) in a pan and bring it to a boil.
- Add the ragi mix paste to the boiling water, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Keep the heat on low and cook the ragi for about 8-10 minutes, or until it thickens and becomes glossy.
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Add Milk and Sweetener:
- Once the ragi is cooked, add the milk and jaggery (or sugar). Stir well.
- Continue to cook the mixture for another 2-3 minutes. If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add more milk or water.
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Flavoring:
- Add the cardamom powder and grated coconut (if using) to the mixture. Mix well.
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Garnish and Serve:
- Serve the Ragi Malt hot or warm, garnished with chopped dry fruits and nuts.
Tips:
- Consistency: You can adjust the consistency according to preference. Some like it thick like a porridge, while others prefer it more fluid like a drink.
- Type of flour: You can make Ragi malt using both Ragi Flour or Sprouted Ragi Flour.
- Milk Usage: You can skip adding milk or use a plant based milk substitute if you want dairy free malt or are lactose intolerant. You can also replace milk with mashed apple or banana.
- Sweetness:
- Adjust the amount of jaggery or sugar based on how sweet you like it.
- You can use honey, dates or any other sweetener of your choice. If using honey, add it after turning off the flame or add it directly to the serving glass as honey is not supposed to be cooked.
- Diabetics should avoid sugar or take it as per your healthcare provider’s recommendation.
- No need to add sugar if making Ragi malt for babies over 6 months. Consult a paediatrician before introducing it to kids.
Variants:
- Savory Version: For a savory version, skip the jaggery and milk. Instead, use buttermilk or more water, and add salt, curry leaves, and a tempering of mustard seeds, cumin, and hing (asafoetida).
Enjoy this healthy and energizing Ragi Malt prepared using our fresh Ragi Atta as a healthy and tasty breakfast drink or as a refreshing evening drink!
