Ragi Recipe- Almond & Coconut Ragi Drink- Traditional Indian Summer Cooler

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Ragi Recipe- Almond & Coconut Ragi Drink- Traditional Indian Summer Cooler

Introduction

Summer in India… instantly brings to mind scorching heat and a desperate need for something cool and refreshing! Growing up, my nani (grandmother) always had a solution – a glass of this creamy, nutty Ragi drink. It’s more than just a cooler; it’s a taste of home, a little bit of tradition, and a whole lot of goodness packed into one glass. I’m so excited to share this family favorite with you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Ragi (finger millet) drink is unbelievably easy to make, needing just a handful of ingredients. It’s naturally cooling, incredibly nutritious, and tastes absolutely divine. Forget those sugary store-bought drinks – this is a healthy and delicious way to beat the heat. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to introduce ragi into your diet!

Ingredients

• 1 cup ragi grain (approx. 170g)
• 10 blanched badam (almonds)
• 2 tbsp grated coconut (approx. 20g)
• 3 tbsp jaggery (approx. 45g)
• 0.5 tsp cardamom powder (approx. 2.5g)
• 2 tbsp sabja seeds (approx. 20g)
• 2 tbsp ragi flour (approx. 16g)
• 3 anjeer (figs)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! Here’s a little insight from my kitchen to yours:

Ragi (Finger Millet): Nutritional Benefits & Regional Uses

Ragi is a powerhouse of nutrients! It’s rich in calcium, iron, and fiber. In South India, it’s a staple, used in everything from porridge to roti. You can find it easily in most Indian grocery stores.

Almonds (Badam): Types & Preparation

I prefer using blanched almonds for this recipe – they give a smoother texture. You can blanch them yourself by soaking in hot water for 10 minutes, then slipping off the skins. Or, you can buy them pre-blanched to save time!

Coconut: Fresh vs. Dried – Which to Use?

Freshly grated coconut is amazing if you can get it. But, unsweetened desiccated coconut works perfectly well too. Just make sure it’s finely grated.

Jaggery: Varieties & Flavor Profile

Jaggery adds a lovely caramel-like sweetness. There are different types – golden jaggery is milder, while dark jaggery has a stronger flavor. Adjust the amount to your liking.

Cardamom: The Queen of Spices – Choosing Quality

Freshly ground cardamom is best! The aroma is incredible. If using store-bought powder, make sure it’s from a reputable brand.

Sabja Seeds: Health Benefits & Soaking Tips

Sabja seeds (also known as basil seeds) are fantastic for digestion and add a lovely texture. Always soak them in water for at least 15-20 minutes before using – they expand quite a bit!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Okay, let’s get cooking!

1. First, give 1 cup of ragi grains a good rinse and spread them out on a clean cloth to dry completely. This usually takes about an hour.
2. Now, dry roast the ragi grains in a pan over medium heat until they become fragrant. This takes about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to burn them! Let them cool completely.
3. Once cooled, grind the roasted ragi with the blanched almonds, grated coconut, jaggery, and cardamom powder. You’ll need a good blender or grinder for this.
4. Strain the mixture through a muslin cloth to get a smooth, creamy liquid. This step is important for a silky texture.
5. Add the soaked sabja seeds to the strained liquid and give it a good stir.
6. Chill the drink in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

For the flour version: Mix 2 tbsp of ragi flour with water and cook until it thickens. Then, blend it with jaggery, figs, and almonds. Chill and serve with ice cubes!

Expert Tips

• Don’t skip the drying step for the ragi grains – it helps with the roasting process.
• If you don’t have a muslin cloth, you can use a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth.
• For a richer flavor, lightly roast the almonds before grinding.

Variations

• Vegan Ragi Drink Adaptation: This recipe is naturally vegan! Just double-check your jaggery source to ensure it hasn’t been processed with bone char.
• Gluten-Free Confirmation: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with sensitivities.
• Adjusting Sweetness Levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of jaggery to suit your taste. You can also add a touch of honey or maple syrup if you prefer.
• Festival Adaptations (Summer Solstice, etc.): My family loves making this during summer festivals. Sometimes, I add a pinch of saffron for a festive touch!

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Ragi drink chilled, garnished with a few extra sabja seeds or a sprinkle of cardamom powder. It’s perfect on its own, or as an accompaniment to a light meal.

Storage Instructions

You can store the Ragi drink in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. It might separate slightly, so just give it a good stir before serving.

FAQs

What are the health benefits of ragi?

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.

Can I use pre-roasted ragi grains?

Yes, you can! Just make sure they aren’t overly roasted.

What is the best way to grind ragi at home?

A high-powered blender or a dry grinder works best. You might need to grind in batches.

Can I substitute jaggery with sugar or another sweetener?

Yes, you can use sugar, honey, or maple syrup. However, jaggery adds a unique flavor that I highly recommend!

How long can I store the ragi drink in the refrigerator?

Up to 24 hours. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Is this drink suitable for diabetics?

While ragi itself has a low glycemic index, jaggery does contain sugar. Diabetics should consume this drink in moderation and monitor their blood sugar levels.