Ragi Idli

Last week, I posted the recipe for Ragi Dosa and also mentioned its nutritional value. Ragi, also known as the poor man's food has become the 6th most popular grain in the world. It is the most healthiest breakfast one can have as it is rich in proteins and low in carbohydrates. It is good for diabetic patients as well as for diet purposes. It is the best option for people with iron deficiencies. It is also known for lowering blood cholesterol levels. Ragi idlis are very soft and fluffy.  

 Ingredients:-

• ½ cup rice
• ½ cup urad dal
• 1 cup ragi flour
• 1 tsp fenugreek seeds 
• salt to taste
• pinch of soda bi carbonate

 Method:-

• Wash and soak urad dal, rice and fenugreek seeds in enough water for at least 3 hours.
• Grind them to a smooth paste using very little water.
• Mix in ragi flour and whisk the batter well.
• Keep the batter to ferment for at least 8 hours.
• Add salt and soda bi carbonate to the batter. Mix well.
• Pour the batter into greased idli moulds.
• Steam for 10-12 minutes till done.  
• Serve with chutney of your choice. 

Notes:- 

• To check if the idlis are done, insert a toothpick. If the toothpick comes out clean the idlis are ready. If not, steam for another 2-3 minutes.
• You may use 1½ cups of ragi grains instead of ragi flour. Soak them along with the urad dal, rice and fenugreek seeds. Grind altogether and use.
• You may also mix some ragi flour in leftover idli batter.

Happy Cooking!!