How to make Ragi Cookies easily at home?

About Ragi Cookies.

Ragi cookies are a wholesome and nutritious variation of traditional cookies, made using ragi flour, also known as finger millet. Ragi is a highly nutritious grain that is rich in dietary fiber, protein, and essential minerals. These cookies are a delightful way to incorporate the goodness of ragi into a sweet treat. Ragi cookies often have a nutty and earthy flavor, combined with the sweetness of ingredients like jaggery or sugar. They are a popular choice for those seeking healthier alternatives to regular cookies while still enjoying a tasty snack.

Here’s a basic recipe for making Ragi Cookies using an oven at home:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup ragi (finger millet) flour
• 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup powdered jaggery (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
• A pinch of salt
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (if needed)
• Chopped nuts (optional for garnish)
• Raisins or chocolate chips (optional for added flavor)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Jaggery: In a mixing bowl, cream the room-temperature butter and powdered jaggery until you have a smooth and fluffy mixture.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the ragi flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, cardamom powder, and a pinch of salt.
4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and jaggery mixture. Combine them well to form a cookie dough. If the dough is too crumbly, you can add a tablespoon or two of milk to bring it together.
5. Shape the Cookies: Take small portions of the dough and shape them into cookies. You can flatten them slightly and place them on the lined baking sheet.
6. Add Garnishes: If desired, press chopped nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips on top of each cookie for added flavor and texture.
7. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
8. Cool and Serve: Once done, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. After they have cooled completely, they are ready to be served.

These homemade Ragi Cookies are a healthier snack option, thanks to the use of ragi flour and jaggery. They offer a delightful combination of nutty and sweet flavors. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or as a guilt-free treat at any time.

Here’s a simple recipe for stovetop Ragi Cookies:

You can make Ragi Cookies without an oven by using a stovetop method.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup ragi (finger millet) flour
• 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup powdered jaggery (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
• A pinch of salt
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (if needed)
• Chopped nuts (optional for garnish)
• Raisins or chocolate chips (optional for added flavor)

Instructions:

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the ragi flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, cardamom powder, and a pinch of salt.
2. Cream Butter and Jaggery: In another bowl, cream the butter and powdered jaggery until you have a smooth and fluffy mixture.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and jaggery mixture. Mix them well to form a cookie dough. If the dough is too crumbly, you can add a tablespoon or two of milk to bring it together.
4. Shape the Cookies: Take small portions of the dough and shape them into cookies. Flatten them slightly to your desired thickness.
5. Heat a Pan: Heat a non-stick or cast-iron pan on the stovetop over low to medium heat.
6. Bake on Stovetop: Place the shaped cookies on the hot pan, leaving some space between each. Cover the pan with a lid and bake the cookies on low heat for about 10-15 minutes or until they are cooked through. Check and flip the cookies occasionally to ensure even cooking.
7. Add Garnishes: If desired, press chopped nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips on top of each cookie for added flavor and texture.
8. Cool and Serve: Once the cookies are cooked and have a golden brown color, remove them from the pan and let them cool on a wire rack. After they have cooled completely, they are ready to be served.

These stovetop Ragi Cookies offer a healthier snacking option, and they are easy to make without the need for an oven. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or as a wholesome treat at any time.

Nutritional Value.

The nutritional value of Ragi Cookies can vary depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used. Here’s an approximate breakdown for a standard serving size of two small cookies (approximately 20 grams):

• Calories: 80-100 calories
• Total Fat: 4-6 grams
• Saturated Fat: 2-3 grams
• Cholesterol: 10-15 mg
• Sodium: 50-70 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
• Sugars: 5-8 grams
• Protein: 1-2 grams

Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and proportions used in the recipe. Ragi Cookies are often considered a healthier option compared to traditional cookies, as they use ragi flour and less refined sugars, but the exact nutritional content may vary based on the recipe and portion size.

Health Benefits.

Ragi Cookies offer several health benefits, primarily due to the use of ragi (finger millet) and wholesome ingredients. Some of the key health benefits include:

1. Rich in Nutrients: Ragi is a nutrient-dense grain, and Ragi Cookies retain many of these nutrients. They are a good source of dietary fiber, protein, calcium, iron, and essential amino acids.
2. Gluten-Free: Ragi is naturally gluten-free, making Ragi Cookies suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
3. Low Glycemic Index: Ragi has a low glycemic index, which means it releases sugar into the bloodstream slowly. This can help regulate blood sugar levels and provide sustained energy.
4. Dietary Fiber: The cookies contain dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes a feeling of fullness, and supports a healthy gut.
5. Rich in Antioxidants: Ragi is known for its antioxidant properties, which help combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body.
6. Heart Health: Ragi may help reduce the risk of heart disease due to its low levels of saturated fat and cholesterol.
7. Weight Management: The fiber and protein content in Ragi Cookies can aid in weight management by promoting satiety and reducing overall calorie intake.
8. Bone Health: Ragi is a good source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
9. Iron Content: Ragi contains iron, which is important for maintaining healthy hemoglobin levels and preventing anemia.
10. Energy Boost: Ragi is a good source of energy, making Ragi Cookies an excellent snack for a quick energy boost.
11. Digestive Health: The fiber in ragi supports digestive health and helps prevent constipation.
12. Lower Cholesterol: Some studies suggest that consuming ragi regularly may help lower cholesterol levels.

It’s important to note that while Ragi Cookies offer these health benefits, they should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The overall nutritional value and healthiness of the cookies can also depend on the specific recipe and ingredients used.

Tips and Tricks.

Certainly, here are some tips and tricks to make delicious and wholesome Ragi Cookies:

1. Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality and fresh ingredients, including good-quality ragi flour, whole wheat flour, and pure butter or ghee for better flavor and nutrition.
2. Balancing Flours: Ragi flour can be dense, so combining it with whole wheat flour or all-purpose flour can yield a lighter texture in the cookies.
3. Sweetener Choice: Opt for healthier sweeteners like jaggery or honey instead of refined sugar for a more wholesome cookie. Adjust the amount to your preferred sweetness.
4. Butter Temperature: Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy creaming and a smoother cookie dough. It should be soft but not melted.
5. Spices and Flavors: Enhance the flavor by adding spices like cardamom or cinnamon. You can also experiment with vanilla extract, grated orange zest, or almond extract for variety.
6. Nuts and Dried Fruits: Add chopped nuts (like almonds, cashews, or walnuts) and dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, or apricots) for extra texture and flavor. Toasting the nuts can enhance their taste.
7. Chill the Dough: If the dough becomes too soft, you can chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before shaping the cookies.
8. Uniform Sizes: When shaping the cookies, make sure they are of a uniform size to ensure even cooking.
9. Stovetop Cooking: If you’re making stovetop Ragi Cookies, maintain a low to medium heat and cook with a lid on to ensure the cookies cook through without burning.
10. Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before storing them. This helps them set and become crisp.
11. Storage: Store Ragi Cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. You can also use parchment paper or wax paper to separate layers of cookies to prevent sticking.
12. Experiment: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different additions, flavors, and textures to create variations of Ragi Cookies that suit your taste.

By following these tips and tricks, you can make wholesome and delicious Ragi Cookies that are both nutritious and enjoyable.

serving Suggestions.

Ragi Cookies can be enjoyed in various ways, and here are some serving suggestions:

1. With Tea or Coffee: Ragi Cookies make a delightful accompaniment to your morning or afternoon tea or coffee. The nutty and sweet flavors complement hot beverages.
2. As a Snack: Grab a couple of Ragi Cookies for a quick and wholesome snack during your workday or while on the go. They provide an energy boost and keep hunger at bay.
3. Healthy Dessert: Serve Ragi Cookies as a healthier dessert option after a meal. They satisfy your sweet tooth without excessive sugar or empty calories.
4. Dipping: Try dipping Ragi Cookies into a glass of milk, yogurt, or a hot beverage for added texture and flavor.
5. Ice Cream Sandwich: Create a unique treat by sandwiching a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two Ragi Cookies for a delicious ice cream sandwich.
6. Yogurt Parfait: Crumble Ragi Cookies over a bowl of yogurt and fresh fruits to add a crunchy and wholesome element to your yogurt parfait.
7. Gifts and Hampers: Package Ragi Cookies in a decorative box or jar and give them as thoughtful gifts for special occasions, such as birthdays or festivals.
8. Picnics and Outings: Pack Ragi Cookies as part of a picnic spread or a snack for outdoor adventures, offering a nutritious and satisfying snack.
9. Children’s Lunchbox: Ragi Cookies can be a wholesome addition to a child’s lunchbox, providing a balanced and tasty snack.
10. Party Platter: Include Ragi Cookies on a dessert platter at parties and gatherings. They can be a unique and healthier dessert option for your guests.
11. Festive Celebrations: Incorporate Ragi Cookies into your festive meals and celebrations as a sweet treat with a nutritional twist.

These serving suggestions showcase the versatility of Ragi Cookies, making them a suitable addition to various occasions and settings, whether you prefer them as a snack, dessert, or a part of your daily routine.

FAQs.