Ragi Porridge Recipe – Easy Jaggery & Almond Flour Indian Breakfast

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Ragi Porridge Recipe – Easy Jaggery & Almond Flour Indian Breakfast

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a breakfast that’s both healthy and delicious. And honestly, this Ragi Porridge is it! It’s become a regular in my kitchen, and I’m so excited to share it with you. It’s warm, comforting, and packed with goodness – the perfect way to start your day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This ragi porridge isn’t just another breakfast option; it’s a little bowl of sunshine! It’s incredibly easy to make, ready in under 10 minutes, and requires just a handful of ingredients. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegan. But the best part? It tastes amazing! The subtle nutty flavor of ragi, combined with the sweetness of jaggery and the richness of almond flour, is a match made in heaven.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful porridge:

• 4 tablespoons ragi flour (approx. 30g)
• 1.5 cups water (360ml)
• 2 tablespoons jaggery (or sweetener of choice) (approx. 30g)
• 1 cup milk (optional) (240ml)
• 1 teaspoon almond powder or dry fruits powder (approx. 5g)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips from my kitchen to yours:

Ragi Flour: The Nutritional Powerhouse

Ragi, also known as finger millet, is a nutritional superstar! It’s packed with calcium, iron, and fiber. I usually get mine from the health food section of my local grocery store, or online. Don’t be intimidated by it – it has a lovely, mild flavor.

Jaggery: A Traditional Sweetener & Its Benefits

Jaggery is unrefined sugar, and it adds a beautiful caramel-like sweetness to the porridge. It’s also considered healthier than refined sugar, offering some minerals. If you don’t have jaggery, you can use coconut sugar, maple syrup, or even regular sugar – though the flavor will be slightly different.

Almond Powder/Dry Fruits Powder: Boosting Nutrition & Flavor

I love adding almond powder (or a mix of cashew and almond!) for an extra boost of protein and healthy fats. It also adds a lovely nutty flavor. You can easily make your own by grinding almonds or dry fruits at home.

Milk: Optional Creaminess & Variations

The milk is totally optional! It adds a lovely creaminess, but if you prefer a lighter porridge, feel free to skip it. You can use any kind of milk you like – cow’s milk, almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk all work beautifully.

Step-By-Step Instructions

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

1. First, in a medium-sized pot, whisk together the ragi flour and water until there are absolutely no lumps. This is important for a smooth porridge!
2. Place the pot over medium heat and start stirring. Keep stirring – and I mean keep stirring – to prevent the ragi from sticking to the bottom.
3. As you stir, the mixture will start to thicken and become glossy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
4. Once it’s thickened to your liking, add the jaggery (or your sweetener of choice) and stir until it’s completely dissolved. Turn off the heat.
5. Now, if you’re using milk, gradually pour it in while stirring continuously. This will create a lovely, smooth consistency.
6. Finally, stir in the almond powder or dry fruits powder.
7. Serve warm or cold, and feel free to drizzle a little ghee and sprinkle some chopped nuts on top for extra indulgence!

Expert Tips

A few things I’ve learned along the way:

• Don’t stop stirring! Seriously, this is the key to a lump-free porridge.
• Adjust the water: If you prefer a thinner porridge, add a little more water. For a thicker porridge, use less.
• Taste as you go: Adjust the sweetness to your liking.

Variations

This recipe is a great base for experimentation! Here are a few ideas:

• Vegan Ragi Porridge: Simply use plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat milk work great) and ensure your sweetener is vegan-friendly (maple syrup is a good option). My friend, Priya, swears by adding a spoonful of coconut cream for extra richness!
• Gluten-Free Confirmation: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they haven’t been processed in a facility that also handles gluten.
• Adjusting Sweetness Levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of jaggery (or sweetener) to your preference. Start with less and add more as needed.
• Festival Adaptations (Makar Sankranti/Lohri): During Makar Sankranti or Lohri, I love adding a pinch of cardamom and a few crushed nuts to the porridge for a festive touch.

Serving Suggestions

Ragi porridge is delicious on its own, but you can also pair it with:

• Fresh fruits like berries or bananas
• A sprinkle of chopped nuts
• A drizzle of ghee or honey
• A side of your favorite yogurt

Storage Instructions

If you have any leftovers (though I doubt you will!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or water if needed to restore the consistency.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

What are the health benefits of ragi porridge?

Ragi is incredibly nutritious! It’s a great source of calcium, iron, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s also known to help regulate blood sugar levels and improve digestion.

Can I make ragi porridge for babies? What adjustments should I make?

Yes, you can! For babies, use a thinner consistency and ensure the porridge is completely cooled before serving. You can also add a little fruit puree for extra flavor and nutrients. Always consult with your pediatrician before introducing new foods to your baby.

What is a good substitute for jaggery in this recipe?

You can use coconut sugar, maple syrup, honey, or even regular sugar as a substitute for jaggery. Keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different.

Can I prepare ragi porridge ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Prepare the porridge as directed and store it in the refrigerator. It may thicken as it cools, so add a little milk or water when reheating.

How can I adjust the consistency of the ragi porridge?

If you prefer a thinner porridge, add more water. For a thicker porridge, use less water. You can also adjust the cooking time – the longer you cook it, the thicker it will become.

Enjoy! I really hope you give this Ragi Porridge a try. Let me know what you think in the comments below!