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How to Make Ragi Laddu: A Gluten-Free Treat for Everyone

Writer's picture: Meenu BalajiMeenu Balaji

Updated: 20 hours ago

Have you ever tried Ragi (Finger Millet)? If not, you're in for a treat! It has been used in my family for making ragi dosa, ragi semiya and ragi puttu. One of the best things about Ragi is that it’s not just healthy, but incredibly versatile.


Today, I'm going to share with you a simple and delicious recipe that will quickly become a family favourite: Ragi Laddu!


What is Ragi?

So, what exactly is Ragi? In English, we call it finger millet. But did you know that it’s called Ragi in Hindi, Nachni in Marathi, and Mandika in Kannada? No matter the name, it’s packed with nutrients that make it a superfood for all ages.


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Ragi has been a part of traditional diets for centuries, especially in southern India. But in the last few years, it's gained popularity worldwide, and rightfully so! It's a gluten-free grain rich in calcium, iron, fibre, and protein. It’s also great for anyone trying to manage blood sugar levels or lose weight.


Health Benefits of Ragi

Let me share with you some of the amazing benefits of Ragi that convinced me to start using it more often in our meals:


  1. Helps Build Strong Bones: One of the most amazing Ragi benefits is its high calcium content. Vitamin D and calcium are important for healthy bones. Therefore, it’s a great choice for kids and adults alike when it comes to strengthening bones.

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  2. A Great Source of Iron: If you’ve been struggling with low iron, Ragi can help. It’s rich in iron, and when you eat sprouted Ragi, it also contains Vitamin C, which improves iron absorption.


  3. Regulates Blood Sugar: For adults, Ragi can be a game-changer when it comes to managing blood glucose levels. Ragi flour helps keep your blood sugar in check, making it a great addition to the diet of those with diabetes or anyone who wants to maintain steady energy levels.


  4. Aids in Weight Loss: If you're looking for a healthy way to manage your weight, Ragi is a fantastic option. It's high in fiber, which keeps you feeling full for longer, reducing the temptation to snack.


  5. A Natural Mood Booster: Ragi is a great source of essential amino acids like phenylalanine and tryptophan. These amino acids support the production of serotonin and melatonin, helping to regulate your mood and promote better sleep.


How to Make Ragi Laddu: A Simple Gluten-Free Recipe

If you’re a fan of quick, nutritious snacks, Ragi Laddu is the perfect treat. It’s rich in calcium, iron, and fiber, and it’s easy to make with just a few simple ingredients. Plus, it’s an ideal snack for kids and adults alike. I love making these laddus for my kids—they’re not only delicious, but also packed with nutrients!

Ragi laddu recipe
Ragi laddu

Time: 20 minutes Makes: 20 laddus

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Ragi flour (or Ragi atta)

  • 1/3 cup crushed nuts (almonds, cashews, or a mix)

  • Dates paste (sweetener of choice)

  • 2 tsp Honey

  • 4 tsp Ghee


Instructions:

  1. Roast the Ragi Flour: Start by roasting the Ragi flour in a pan on low heat until it turns golden brown. This brings out the nutty flavor of the Ragi. You can also roast some crushed nuts in ghee for extra flavor.

  2. Warm the Honey: While the flour is cooling down, warm the honey in a small pan for a few seconds. This helps it blend better with the other ingredients.

  3. Mix Everything Together: Add the warm honey and dates paste to the Ragi flour and crushed nuts. Mix everything until it’s well combined.

  4. Shape the Laddus: While the mixture is still warm, start rolling it into small laddus. If it’s too dry to form into a ball, add a bit more ghee. If you’re in a rush, you can simply enjoy it as a crumble—it's just as tasty!

  5. Store in an Airtight Container: These laddus can be stored for up to 7-10 days in an airtight container.


Nutritional Benefits of Ragi Laddu

Ragi Laddu isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with essential nutrients. Let’s take a closer look at what these laddus bring to the table (or should I say, to the snack time):

  • Rich in Calcium: Ragi is loaded with calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.

  • Good Source of Fiber: These laddus are a great way to boost your fiber intake, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full.

  • Iron and Amino Acids: Ragi is rich in iron and amino acids like phenylalanine and tryptophan. These amino acids have been linked to better mood and even better sleep.


Why You Should Add Ragi to Your Diet

Incorporating Ragi into your daily meals is one of the simplest and healthiest changes you can make. Whether you're making Ragi dosa for breakfast or enjoying a Ragi malt as a snack, it’s easy to get the benefits of Ragi in many forms. I remember the first time I tried Ragi mudde with my family—it was a new taste, but we loved it.


Ragi is not just for adults; kids can benefit from Ragi’s nutrients too. When my kids were growing, I knew I had to find another way to ensure they were getting enough calcium. That’s when I started making Ragi laddu.


Ragi is a Versatile Superfood

The best thing about Ragi is that you can use it in so many ways. If you want to go beyond Ragi laddu, try making Ragi malt, Ragi dosa, or even add Ragi flour to your regular chapati dough for a gluten-free twist. The possibilities are endless!


Conclusion

Incorporating Ragi into your diet is a great way to boost your health with minimal effort. Whether you're making Ragi laddu, Ragi dosa, or simply adding Ragi flour to your meals, you'll be reaping the benefits of this gluten-free, calcium-packed superfood. I’m always looking for new ways to include Ragi in my family’s meals—and I can tell you, it’s a game-changer!


So go ahead, give Ragi a try today and enjoy all the amazing health benefits it offers. Let me know how your Ragi laddus turns out—I'd love to hear your thoughts!



If you love this recipe and want to transition to a vegan/vegetarian diet, why not enroll for our online mini-course on plant-based diets.




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