Welcome to my blog! Today, I’m excited to share a healthy and delectable Indian sweet recipe: Ragi Ladoo. Ragi, also known as finger millet, is a powerhouse of nutrients and a great alternative to traditional flours. These ladoos are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Let’s dive into this simple yet delightful recipe.

Ingredients

To make these nutritious Ragi Ladoos, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup ragi (finger millet) flour
• 1/2 cup jaggery, grated (adjust sweetness as per taste)
• 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
• 1/4 cup roasted nuts (cashews, almonds, or your choice)
• 2-3 tablespoons desiccated coconut (optional)
• 1 teaspoon cardamom powder
• A pinch of salt

Instructions

Step 1: Dry Roast the Ragi Flour

1. Heat a heavy-bottomed pan on medium flame.
2. Add the ragi flour to the pan and dry roast it for about 8-10 minutes. Stir continuously to prevent burning. The flour should emit a nutty aroma and turn slightly darker.
3. Once roasted, transfer the flour to a bowl and let it cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Jaggery Syrup

1. In the same pan, add the grated jaggery with a few tablespoons of water. Heat it on a low flame.
2. Stir until the jaggery melts completely and forms a syrup. Ensure that there are no lumps.
3. Strain the syrup to remove any impurities and set it aside.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

1. In the bowl containing the roasted ragi flour, add the cardamom powder, a pinch of salt, and the desiccated coconut (if using).
2. Pour the warm jaggery syrup into the mixture and mix well.

Step 4: Add Ghee and Nuts

1. Heat the ghee in a small pan and add the roasted nuts. Fry them until golden brown.
2. Pour the ghee and nuts mixture into the ragi and jaggery mixture. Mix thoroughly.

Step 5: Shape the Ladoos

1. While the mixture is still warm, take small portions of it and shape it into round balls (ladoos) using your hands. If the mixture feels too dry, add a little more warm ghee to bind it.
2. Allow the ladoos to cool completely. They will firm up as they cool.

Tips for Perfect Ragi Ladoos

• Roasting the Ragi Flour: Ensure the ragi flour is well-roasted to avoid any raw taste.
• Adjusting Sweetness: The amount of jaggery can be adjusted according to your taste preference.
• Binding the Ladoos: If the mixture is too dry, add warm ghee gradually until the ladoos bind well.

Health Benefits of Ragi Ladoos

• Rich in Calcium: Ragi is an excellent source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
• High in Fiber: Ragi is high in dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a healthy gut.
• Packed with Iron: Ragi is a good source of iron, helping in the prevention of anemia.
• Low Glycemic Index: Ragi has a low glycemic index, making it suitable for people with diabetes.

Serving Suggestions

Ragi Ladoos can be enjoyed as a nutritious snack or dessert. They are perfect for festive occasions, as a healthy treat for kids, or as a post-meal sweet delight.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making and eating these delicious Ragi Ladoos as much as I do! They are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a boon for your health. Try this recipe and let me know how it turned out in the comments below. Happy cooking!

Feel free to share this recipe with your friends and family. Stay tuned for more healthy and delicious recipes!