Ultimate Ragi & Millet Health Drink Mix Recipe – Traditional Indian

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Ultimate Ragi & Millet Health Drink Mix Recipe – Traditional Indian

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for ways to sneak a little extra goodness into your day. I’m so excited to share my family’s recipe for a traditional Indian health drink mix – it’s packed with nutrients, incredibly versatile, and honestly, tastes amazing! This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a little piece of my childhood, and I can’t wait for you to try it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This health mix is a powerhouse of nutrition, blending the goodness of various millets, lentils, and nuts. It’s incredibly easy to make, and the best part? You can customize it to your liking! Whether you prefer a sweet and comforting porridge or a savory, energizing drink, this mix has got you covered. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to introduce millets into your diet – even for picky eaters!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this wonderful health mix:

• 1 kg Finger millet (Ragi)
• 1 kg Pearl Millet (Kambu)
• ½ kg Green Gram (Pachai Payaru)
• ¼ kg Red Rice (Sigapu Arisi)
• ¼ kg Roasted Gram (Pottukadalai)
• ½ cup Foxtail Millet (Thinai) (optional)
• 100 grams Horse Gram (Kollu)
• 100 grams Barley
• 25 Almonds
• 10 Cashew Nuts
• 100 grams Peanuts
• 6 Cardamom Pods
• 1 inch Dry Ginger (Sukku)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk about these ingredients – each one brings something special to the table!

Finger Millet (Ragi) – Nutritional Powerhouse: Ragi is a calcium superstar! It’s also rich in iron and fiber, making it great for overall health.

Pearl Millet (Kambu) – Regional Variations & Benefits: Kambu is a staple in many South Indian households. It’s known for being cooling and easily digestible. Different regions have their own unique ways of using it.

Green Gram (Pachai Payaru) – Protein & Cooling Properties: This lentil adds a lovely protein boost and has a naturally cooling effect on the body – perfect for warmer months.

Red Rice (Sigapu Arisi) – Traditional Significance: Red rice is an ancient grain, packed with antioxidants. It adds a beautiful color and subtle nutty flavor to the mix.

Roasted Gram (Pottukadalai) – Flavor & Texture: These roasted chickpeas add a delightful crunch and a slightly sweet, savory flavor.

Foxtail Millet (Thinai) – Optional Addition & Benefits: Thinai is a tiny but mighty millet! It’s gluten-free and a good source of carbohydrates. Feel free to skip it if you can’t find it, though.

Horse Gram (Kollu) – Ayurvedic Properties: In Ayurveda, horse gram is known for its warming properties and is often used to aid digestion.

Barley – Health Benefits & Usage: Barley is a good source of fiber and can help regulate blood sugar levels.

Nuts (Almonds, Cashews, Peanuts) – Nutritional Boost: A handful of nuts adds healthy fats, protein, and a lovely richness to the mix.

Cardamom Pods – Aromatic Flavor: Just a few cardamom pods add a beautiful aroma and a hint of sweetness.

Dry Ginger (Sukku) – Digestive Benefits & Traditional Use: Sukku is a warming spice that aids digestion and is often used in traditional Indian remedies.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s a simple process, I promise.

1. Clean Everything: First things first, give all your ingredients a good wash. If you’re using organic products, you can skip this step.
2. Dry Roast: Now, the key to a flavorful health mix is dry roasting. Take each ingredient separately – ragi, kambu, green gram, and so on – and roast them in a pan over medium heat. You’ll want to roast until they become fragrant and slightly change color. This usually takes about 5-10 minutes per ingredient. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn quickly! Cool each roasted ingredient on a plate.
3. Combine & Grind: Once everything is cooled, combine all the roasted ingredients along with the cardamom pods in a large bowl.
4. Powder Time: Now it’s time to grind! You can use a flour mill for the finest powder, or a high-powered blender will work too. Grind until you achieve a smooth, consistent powder.
5. Cool & Store: Let the powder cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This prevents condensation and keeps it fresh for longer.

Expert Tips

• Don’t skip the dry roasting! It really brings out the flavors of the millets and lentils.
• Cooling is crucial. Grinding warm ingredients can create a sticky mess.
• Use a clean, dry container for storage to prevent spoilage.

Variations

• Vegan Adaptation: This recipe is naturally vegan!
• Gluten-Free Confirmation: This health mix is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Spice Level – Adjusting Dry Ginger: If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the amount of dry ginger or omit it altogether.
• Festival Adaptations – Pongal/Makar Sankranti: During Pongal or Makar Sankranti, you can add a pinch of black pepper and cumin seeds to the mix for a festive touch.
• Porridge Customization – Sweet vs. Savory: My mom always made a sweet version with milk and jaggery, while my grandma preferred a savory version with buttermilk and a pinch of salt.

Serving Suggestions

This health mix is incredibly versatile!

• Porridge: Mix 1-2 teaspoons of the powder with water and cook on low heat until thickened. Add milk and your favorite sweetener (jaggery, honey, sugar) for a sweet porridge, or buttermilk and salt for a savory version.
• Smoothies: Add a tablespoon to your morning smoothie for an extra nutritional boost.
• Dosa/Idli Batter: A small amount can be added to dosa or idli batter for added nutrients.

Storage Instructions

Store the health mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It should stay fresh for up to 3 months.

FAQs

What are the health benefits of consuming this health mix daily?

This health mix is packed with fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals. It can aid digestion, boost energy levels, and support overall health.

Can I add other millets or grains to this mix?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other millets like barnyard millet (Sanwa) or proso millet (Cheena).

Is this health mix suitable for babies and young children? If so, how should I prepare it for them?

Yes, it is! For babies, start with a very small amount (½ – 1 teaspoon) mixed with well-cooked rice or porridge. Ensure it’s thoroughly cooked and cooled before serving.

How long does this health mix stay fresh?

Up to 3 months when stored properly in an airtight container.

What is the significance of dry roasting the ingredients?

Dry roasting enhances the flavor of the ingredients and makes them easier to digest. It also helps to remove any moisture, preventing spoilage.

Can I use a spice grinder instead of a flour mill?

You can, but a flour mill will give you a finer powder. If using a spice grinder, you may need to grind in batches.

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family does! Let me know in the comments how it turns out for you. Happy cooking!