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Healthy eating often takes a backseat when life gets busy. One often ends up eating packaged snacks that are quick, but not always nutritious. This is where ragi, or finger millet, can change the game. Ragi flour is a powerhouse of nutrients like calcium, iron, and fibre. It also keeps you full for longer, supports bone health, and provides steady energy throughout the day.
The best part about ragi is its versatility. It can be used to make a variety of snacks, both sweet and savoury. From ragi cookies to ragi chakli, these recipes are not just healthy but also easy to prepare, making them ideal for busy mornings, evening hunger pangs, or even as lunchbox additions.
Ragi Cookies
Ragi cookies make for a wholesome snack that works well with tea or as a midday bite. The high fibre and iron in ragi make these cookies filling and nutritious. To prepare these cookies, mix one cup of ragi flour, half a cup of jaggery powder, two tablespoons of ghee, and a pinch of cardamom powder. Add a little milk to form a dough, shape into cookies, and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 12-15 minutes. Once the cookies are cooled, store them in an airtight container. Ragi cookies stay fresh and crisp for a week, making them a handy snack for work or school breaks, along with evening or morning tea.
Ragi Pancakes
These soft and fluffy pancakes are a great option for a quick breakfast or evening snack. Ragi is high in calcium and protein, which makes these pancakes both healthy and satisfying. To make these pancakes, combine one cup of ragi flour, half a cup of whole wheat flour, one tablespoon of jaggery powder, and a pinch of baking soda. Add enough milk and make a thick batter. Pour a ladleful onto a heated non-stick pan and cook on both sides until golden. You can serve these warm pancakes with honey or peanut butter.
Ragi Chakli
Chakli is probably one of the best snacks from Indian kitchens. When paired with a healthy option like ragi, it will work wonders! With fibre and essential minerals, this healthier version of the classic is guilt-free. Ragi chakli is a crunchy snack that’s perfect for munching between meals. To make the chaklis, mix one cup of ragi flour, half a cup of rice flour, one teaspoon of sesame seeds, and a pinch of cumin. Add hot water and form a soft dough. Shape it into spirals using a chakli maker and bake or air-fry at 180°C for 12-15 minutes until the chaklis are crisp. Once completely cooled, store in a dry, airtight jar. These chaklis stay crunchy for up to 10 days and are perfect for tea time or as an office snack.
Ragi Banana Muffins
Ragi Banana Muffins are soft, slightly sweet, and make a perfect grab-and-go snack. Ragi adds fibre and iron, while bananas bring natural sweetness and potassium. To make the muffins, mash two ripe bananas, mix them with one cup of ragi flour, half a teaspoon of baking powder, two tablespoons of cocoa powder (optional), and half a cup of milk. Pour the batter into muffin moulds and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 20 minutes. Once cool, store the muffins in an airtight box in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also warm them slightly before eating for the best taste and texture.
Ragi Thattai
This crispy South Indian snack is made healthier with ragi flour. It is rich in fibre and makes a perfect alternative to fried chips. Mix one cup of ragi flour, half a cup of rice flour, one tablespoon of sesame seeds, chopped curry leaves, and salt. Add hot water to form a soft dough, and shape into small discs. Shallow fry or air-fry these small discs until they turn golden and crisp. Store in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for about a week and are great with a hot cup of tea or as a lunchbox snack for kids.
