How to Make Ragi Idli: Healthy South Indian Recipe

Ragi Idli: A Nutritious and Delicious South Indian Delight – How to make Ragi Idli

If you're looking for a healthy and tasty twist from the classic South Indian breakfast, then Ragi Idli is the answer! It is made from the goodness of ragi (finger millet) and a blend of traditional ingredients.

These soft and fluffy idlis are not only a treat to your taste buds but also pack a punch of nutrition. Ragi Idli is a delightful and wholesome breakfast option that combines the goodness of ragi with the traditional appeal of idlis.

With its earthy flavour, soft texture, and rich nutritional profile, this recipe is a perfect way to start your day on a healthy note. Soft and nutritious Ragi Idli is also vegan, gluten free and a gut friendly breakfast or snack.

As we know ragi is an excellent vegan source of protein, calcium, iron etc. So, give it a try in your kitchen and I am sure your family will undoubtedly relish this delectable and nutritious South Indian delight! Enjoy the goodness of Ragi Idli, and let your taste buds savor the harmony of flavors and nutrition in every bite.

Here's a simple recipe to guide you through making these delightful ragi idlis in the comfort of your kitchen. Enjoy cooking!


Ragi Idli

Soaking time - 4 to 5 hours
Fermenting time 7 to 8 hours
Cooking time – 15 to 20 minutes approx.
Makes 16 to 20 idlis

Ingredients to make Ragi Idli:

1 cup ragi flour
1 cup idli rice
½ cup urad dal (black gram)
½ cup poha (flattened rice)
1 teaspoon fenugreek seeds (methi seeds)
½ cup sour curd
Salt to taste
Water (as needed for batter consistency)
½ teaspoon baking soda (for extra fluffiness)
Oil (for greasing idli molds)

Method to make Ragi Idli:

·       Wash idli rice, urad dal and fenugreek seeds thoroughly under running water.

·       In separate bowls, soak the idli rice, urad dal and fenugreek seeds in water. Add enough water to submerge them entirely. Let them soak for about 4 to 5 hours.

·       After the soaking time is over, drain the water from the urad dal and fenugreek seeds.

·       In a mixer or wet grinder, grind the urad dal and fenugreek seeds together to a smooth and fluffy consistency. It may take around 10-15 minutes of grinding. Add small amounts of water while grinding as needed to achieve the desired texture.

·       Transfer the urad dal batter to a large mixing bowl.

·       Now, grind the soaked idli rice and poha together until it becomes a smooth paste. This may take another 5 to 7 minutes or so. Again, add water in small quantities as needed.

·       Now, mix the idli rice and poha batter with the urad dal batter in the mixing bowl. Combine them well using your hands to incorporate air into the batter, which helps in fermentation.

·       Add the ragi flour to the mixture and mix thoroughly to ensure there are no lumps.

·       Cover the bowl with and let the batter ferment overnight (or for at least 8 hours). Place it in a warm and dark corner of your kitchen for better fermentation results.

·       The next morning/after 7 to 8 hours, you'll notice that the batter has fermented and risen, with a lovely tangy aroma.

·       Add sour curd to the fermented batter. This helps in enhancing the flavour and aids in digestion.

·       Add salt to the batter and mix well. You can also add a pinch of baking soda at this stage to make the idlis extra fluffy, but it's entirely optional.

·       Grease the idli molds with oil to prevent sticking. Pour the batter into the molds, filling them to about 3/4th of their capacity.

·       Steam the ragi idlis in a steamer for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

·       Once they are cooked, allow the idlis to cool for a minute or two before gently removing them from the moulds using a spoon or a butter knife.

·       Repeat the same for remaining.

·       Ragi idlis are best enjoyed hot with coconut chutney, sambar, or any chutney of your choice.

·       For an added nutritional boost, serve the idlis with a side of vegetable stew or sautéed veggies.

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