Healthy Breakfast Recipes

RAGI ADA/FINGER MILLET ADA/ILA APPAM

Embark on a tasty journey with Ragi Ada, a yummy dish from South India that mixes the goodness of ragi with steamed bananas, jaggery, and coconut. Coming straight from the heart of South India, this traditional treat captures the local flavors in every bite. In this culinary adventure, we guide you through making Ragi Ada, explaining the steps to get the perfect balance of texture and taste. Come along as we share the secrets of this healthy and tasty delight, inviting you to enjoy the special and aromatic experience that Ragi Ada brings to your taste buds. Growing up in India, I loved savoring natural and delicious foods. One of my favorite dishes was Adai/Appam, made with whole wheat flour and rice. With millets gaining popularity, I tried using ragi, and it turned out to be a delightful experience.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Ragi/Fingermillet

Botanical name Eleusine coracana. Ragi, also known as finger millet, nachni, madua etc ..is a highly nutritious grain native to Africa and widely cultivated in Asia. It is a staple in South Indian cuisine and gaining popularity worldwide due to its exceptional health benefits. Packed with essential amino acids, calcium, and iron, ragi is a powerhouse of nutrients. Its high fiber content aids digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Additionally, it is gluten-free, making it an excellent alternative for those with gluten sensitivities. Ragi’s versatility makes it a valuable addition to various dishes, from porridge to baked goods, offering a wholesome and tasty option for a balanced diet.

Ingredients

  • Ragi (Finger Millet) flour-1 cup
  • Steamed banana-1
  • Jaggery syrup/powder -2-3 tablespoon (add according to the taste)
  • Cardamom powder-1/2 teaspoon
  • Grated coconut-1/2 cup
  • Banana leaves/ Indian Bay leaf for wrapping- If you dont have both use a baking/parchment sheet
Preparation time-30 minutes  Cooking time:1 hour

Recipe

In a bowl, put 1 cup of ragi powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and mix them well. Gradually add 1/2 cup of hot water and stir until it’s a bit watery but not too thick or too runny. Next, steam a banana in a steamer for 20 minutes. Once it’s well-cooked, let it cool slightly, peel it while warm, and mash it up. Add cardamom powder, grated coconut, and jaggery syrup or powder to the mashed banana. Mix everything well. Take a banana leaf, bay leaf, or a baking sheet. Spread the ragi dough on it, then layer the banana mixture over it. Fold the leaf or sheet and steam for another 20 minutes. Now, you’re ready to enjoy this warm treat.

Method of preparation with pictures

  1. In a bowl, put 1 cup of ragi powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and mix them.

2.Gradually add 1/2 cup of hot water and stir until it’s a bit watery but not too thick or too runny.

3.Next, steam a banana in a steamer for 20 minutes.

4.Once it’s well-cooked, let it cool slightly, peel it while warm, and mash it up.

5.Add cardamom powder, grated coconut, and jaggery syrup or powder to the mashed banana. Mix everything well.

6.Take a banana leaf, bay leaf, or a baking sheet. Spread the ragi dough on it, then layer the banana mixture over it.

7.Fold the leaf or sheet .

8.Steam for 20 minutes.

9.Now, you’re ready to enjoy this warm treat.

Watch recipe video

Storage

  • Cool Completely: Allow Ada to cool entirely before storing to prevent sogginess.
  • Airtight Container: Transfer Ada to an airtight container to maintain freshness and texture.
  • Refrigeration: For longer shelf life, refrigerate Ada, slowing down bacterial growth.
  • Separate Layers: Place parchment paper or cling film between layers to prevent sticking.
  • Avoid Odors: Keep Ada away from strong-smelling foods to prevent odor absorption.
  • Freezing (Optional): Wrap individual Ada pieces and freeze for extended storage, labeling with the date

FAQS

1.Is Ragi Ada Suitable for All Ages?

Absolutely! Ragi Ada is a versatile ingredient suitable for all age groups, offering a range of health benefits.

2.Can Ragi Ada Help in Weight Management?

Yes, incorporating ragi Ada into your diet may aid in weight management due to its high fiber content, promoting a feeling of fullness.

3.How Can I Buy Quality Ragi Ada?

Look for reputable brands or local sources that prioritize quality. Ensure the product is free from contaminants and well-packaged.

4.Is Ragi Ada Safe for Individuals with Celiac Disease?

Absolutely! Ragi Ada is gluten-free, making it a safe and nutritious choice for individuals with celiac disease.

Conclusion

Embark on a delightful culinary journey with Ragi Ada, a traditional South Indian treat that encapsulates the essence of local flavors in every bite. By blending the wholesome goodness of ragi with steamed bananas, jaggery, and coconut, this dish offers a unique and aromatic experience for your taste buds. Whether you are seeking a healthy and delicious option or wish to explore the diverse world of millets, Ragi Ada presents a perfect choice. From its exceptional nutritional profile to its versatile usage in various recipes, ragi continues to gain popularity as a gluten-free and nutrient-rich grain. So, indulge in the special and aromatic experience that Ragi Ada brings to your palate and savor the natural, irresistible flavors of this time-honored delicacy.

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