Ragi Idli

Idli is a much-liked Indian rice-lentil cake, often eaten for breakfast. In ragi idli, millet instead (finger millet or ragi in India) instead of rice is used. Millet is one of the oldest cultivated grains. It’s hardiness, temperature and drought tolerance make it suitable for growing in many regions worldwide.Unfortunately, in some parts, the use of millet has declined over the last century. However, ragi recipes are easy to cook, and extremely nutritious too.

Health Benefits:

In times of growing gluten intolerance and better health sensibility, we should promote the consumption of millet and raise awareness for its many health benefits.

The nutritional value is exceptionally high. Millet is gluten-free, a good source of dietary fiber and protein, rich in A and B vitamins, iron and calcium. Millet is a superfood and deserves much more attention.

Our breakfast recipe allows you to make the idli immediately without the need for overnight fermentation.

Ingredients

cups millet flour: 1

cup semolina: 1

cup natural yogurt: 1

cup water: 1

tsp baking soda or baking powder: 1/4

tsp salt: 1/2

How To Make Ragi Idli

1. Dry roast the semolina for 2-3 minutes.
2. Once lukewarm, transfer to a bowl and combine with the millet flour, yogurt, and salt.
3. Add water and whisk everything to a smooth batter.
4. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
5. In the meantime, bring the water in the steamer to a boil and grease the idli molds.
6. Add the baking soda/powder to the batter.
7. Fill the molds and steam for 8-10 minutes. Cooking time might vary, depending on your equipment.
8. To check if idli is cooked, stick a toothpick into one and if it comes out clean, idli is ready.
9. Switch off the flame.
10. Keep the idli for another 5 minutes in the mold.
11. Serve with sambar, a good onion or coconut-based chutney, or with a sauce of your choice.

In case you do not have an idli tray for steaming, you could use an egg poacher, muffin tray, small bowl (preferably metal) or ramekin. A water-filled wok with a lid is also an excellent alternative. You might have to adjust the steaming time. Serve warm from an insulated casserole.