Welcome to our kitchen! Today, we’re making Ragi Roti, a wholesome and nutritious flatbread made from ragi (finger millet) flour. This roti is not only packed with essential nutrients but also easy to prepare and delicious. It’s perfect as a side dish with your favorite curries or even enjoyed on its own with a dollop of yogurt or pickle. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

To make Ragi Roti, you will need:

• 1 cup ragi flour (finger millet flour)
• 1/2 cup whole wheat flour (optional, for easier handling)
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon ajwain (carom seeds)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon ghee or oil (optional, for a richer taste)
• Water (as needed for kneading)
• Chopped fresh coriander (optional, for added flavor)
• Chili powder (optional, for a spicy kick)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ragi flour, whole wheat flour (if using), cumin seeds, ajwain, and salt.
2. Add Ghee or Oil: If using, add the ghee or oil to the flour mixture. This helps in making the dough soft and adds a richer flavor.
3. Add Water Gradually: Gradually add water, a little at a time, and mix to form a smooth and pliable dough. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If you’re adding chopped coriander or chili powder, mix them in at this stage.
4. Rest the Dough: Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes. This helps in making the dough easier to roll out.

Step 2: Roll Out the Roti

1. Divide the Dough: Divide the dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball).
2. Roll Out: On a lightly floured surface, flatten one dough ball and roll it out into a thin circle (about 6-8 inches in diameter). Use a rolling pin to roll out the dough evenly. If the dough sticks, lightly dust it with some ragi flour or whole wheat flour.

Step 3: Cook the Roti

1. Preheat the Tava: Heat a tava or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the Roti: Place the rolled-out roti on the hot tava. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until you see bubbles forming on the surface. Flip the roti and cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes. Press gently with a cloth or spatula to ensure even cooking.
3. Optional: If desired, you can apply a little ghee or oil on the roti while cooking for a richer flavor and crispiness.
4. Repeat: Repeat the process with the remaining dough balls.

Step 4: Serve

1. Serve Hot: Serve the ragi roti hot with your favorite curry, dal, or yogurt. It can also be enjoyed with a simple pickle or a side salad.

Tips and Variations

• Consistency of Dough: Ensure that the dough is not too dry or too wet. If it feels dry, add a little more water. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour.
• Flavor Enhancements: You can add finely chopped onions, green chilies, or grated carrots to the dough for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Rolling Tips: If the dough sticks to the rolling pin, use a parchment paper or a lightly floured surface. You can also use a plastic sheet to roll out the dough.

Why Ragi?

Ragi, or finger millet, is a highly nutritious grain rich in calcium, iron, fiber, and essential amino acids. It is a great choice for maintaining bone health, improving digestion, and providing sustained energy. Incorporating ragi into your diet through recipes like ragi roti is a delicious way to enjoy its health benefits.

Conclusion

Ragi Roti is a nutritious and flavorful addition to any meal. It’s simple to make, packed with essential nutrients, and pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Try this recipe and enjoy the wholesome goodness of ragi in a delicious flatbread form. Happy cooking!