Hello, sweet enthusiasts! Today, I am excited to share a healthy and delectable Indian dessert recipe: Finger Millet (Ragi) Halwa. Finger millet, also known as Ragi, is a powerhouse of nutrition and a perfect ingredient for creating a wholesome and delicious dessert. This Ragi Halwa is not only easy to make but also packed with essential nutrients, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. Let’s get started on this delightful recipe!

Ingredients

To prepare this nutritious Finger Millet (Ragi) Halwa, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup finger millet (ragi) flour
• 1/2 cup jaggery, grated (adjust sweetness as per taste)
• 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (cashews, almonds)
• 2 tablespoons raisins
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
• A pinch of salt
• 1/4 cup milk (optional, for extra richness)

Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Ragi Flour

1. In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee on medium flame.
2. Add the ragi flour and roast it until it turns aromatic and changes color slightly. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir continuously to avoid burning.
3. Once roasted, set the flour aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Jaggery Syrup

1. In a separate pan, add the grated jaggery with 1/4 cup of water.
2. Heat the mixture on low flame until the jaggery melts completely.
3. Strain the syrup to remove any impurities and set it aside.

Step 3: Cook the Ragi Halwa

1. In the same pan used to roast the flour, add the remaining ghee and heat it on medium flame.
2. Add the chopped nuts and fry them until they turn golden brown.
3. Add the raisins and fry for another minute until they puff up.
4. Pour 2 cups of water into the pan and bring it to a boil.
5. Gradually add the roasted ragi flour to the boiling water, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
6. Reduce the flame to low and cook the mixture until it thickens and the raw smell of ragi disappears. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
7. Add the jaggery syrup to the mixture and stir continuously until it is well combined and the halwa thickens further.
8. Add the cardamom powder and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly.
9. For extra richness, you can add 1/4 cup of milk at this stage and cook for a few more minutes until the halwa reaches the desired consistency.

Step 4: Serve

1. Once the halwa is cooked to a thick, smooth consistency, turn off the flame.
2. Serve the Ragi Halwa warm, garnished with a few more nuts and raisins if desired.

Tips for Perfect Finger Millet Halwa

• Roasting the Flour: Ensure that the ragi flour is roasted well to bring out its nutty flavor and to ensure it blends well with the other ingredients.
• Sweetness: Adjust the amount of jaggery according to your taste preference. You can also use sugar or any other sweetener of your choice.
• Consistency: Ragi Halwa should have a smooth, thick consistency. If it becomes too thick, you can add a little warm water or milk to adjust the consistency.

Health Benefits of Finger Millet Halwa

• Rich in Calcium: Finger millet is one of the best sources of calcium among cereals, promoting bone health.
• Gluten-Free: Finger millet is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
• Packed with Nutrients: Finger millet is a good source of protein, iron, and essential minerals like magnesium and phosphorus.
• Low Glycemic Index: Finger millet has a low glycemic index, making it suitable for people with diabetes.

Serving Suggestions

Finger Millet Halwa is perfect for festive occasions, family gatherings, or as a wholesome dessert any time of the day. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature and pairs wonderfully with a cup of chai or coffee.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making and savoring this delightful Finger Millet (Ragi) Halwa as much as I do! It’s a wonderful way to incorporate the goodness of ragi into your diet while indulging in a sweet treat. 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!