Warm Ragi Milk Recipe – Cloves & Cardamom Indian Drink

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Warm Ragi Milk Recipe – Cloves & Cardamom Indian Drink

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for comforting, warming drinks, especially as the weather gets a little cooler. This warm ragi milk, infused with the cozy flavors of cloves and cardamom, has become a total favorite in my kitchen. It’s like a hug in a mug, and I’m so excited to share it with you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just any warm milk. It’s a beautifully spiced, incredibly nourishing drink that’s ready in under 10 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick breakfast, a soothing bedtime treat, or just a moment of calm in a busy day. Plus, ragi is a powerhouse of nutrients – we’ll get into that!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting elixir:

• 2 whole cloves
• 2 cardamom pods
• 2 cups Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Milk (about 475ml)
• 1 teaspoon 100% pure Maple syrup (about 5ml)
• A pinch of sea salt (less than 1/4 teaspoon)
• 3 tablespoons Ragi flour (about 21 grams)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can make all the difference.

Ragi Flour: A Nutritional Powerhouse

Ragi, also known as finger millet, is an ancient grain packed with calcium, iron, and fiber. It’s naturally gluten-free and has a slightly earthy flavor that works beautifully in this drink. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores or online.

Almond Milk: Choosing the Right Kind

I prefer unsweetened vanilla almond milk for this recipe. It adds a lovely subtle sweetness and creaminess. But feel free to use any plant-based milk you like – oat milk or cashew milk would also be delicious!

Cloves & Cardamom: The Aromatic Duo

These spices are the heart and soul of this drink. They bring warmth and a beautiful fragrance. Don’t skimp on them! Using whole spices and lightly crushing them releases their oils and maximizes the flavor.

Maple Syrup: Natural Sweetness & Alternatives

I love the warm, caramel-like flavor of maple syrup, but you can easily substitute it with honey, agave nectar, or even a little bit of jaggery (gur) for a more traditional Indian sweetness.

Sea Salt: Enhancing Flavors

Just a tiny pinch of sea salt balances the sweetness and brings all the flavors together. Trust me on this one!

Step-By-Step Instructions

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

1. In a saucepan, combine the lightly crushed cloves, cardamom pods, almond milk, and a pinch of sea salt.
2. Heat the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until it almost boils – you’ll see little bubbles forming around the edges. Don’t let it boil vigorously!
3. Now, whisk in the ragi flour. This is where you want to pay attention and whisk continuously to make sure there are no lumps. Keep whisking until everything is smooth and well combined.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. The mixture will start to thicken, similar to the consistency of hot chocolate.
5. Finally, strain the drink into mugs to remove the spices. This gives you a lovely, smooth texture. Serve warm and enjoy!

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned along the way to help you make the perfect ragi milk:

Achieving the Perfect Consistency

If your ragi milk is too thick, simply add a splash more almond milk. If it’s too thin, simmer for another minute or two, stirring constantly.

Blooming the Spices for Maximum Flavor

Lightly crushing the cloves and cardamom pods before adding them to the milk helps release their essential oils, giving you a more intense and aromatic flavor.

Adjusting Sweetness to Your Preference

Start with 1 teaspoon of maple syrup and taste. You can always add more if you prefer a sweeter drink.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Ragi Milk

This recipe is already naturally vegan if you use plant-based milk!

Gluten-Free Confirmation

Ragi flour is naturally gluten-free, making this a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. Just double-check the label on your almond milk to ensure it’s also gluten-free.

Spice Level Adjustment: More or Less Cardamom & Cloves

My family loves a strong spice flavor, so I often add an extra clove or cardamom pod. Feel free to adjust the amount to your liking!

Festival Adaptation: Winter Solstice/Makar Sankranti Warmth

During the winter months, especially around Makar Sankranti, I love adding a tiny pinch of grated ginger to this drink for an extra warming boost.

Serving Suggestions

This ragi milk is wonderful on its own, but you can also enjoy it with:

• A sprinkle of cinnamon
• A few chopped nuts (almonds or pistachios are lovely)
• A side of dates or other dried fruit

Storage Instructions

While this drink is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You may need to reheat it gently and whisk it again, as it might separate slightly.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

What are the health benefits of ragi flour?

Ragi is incredibly nutritious! It’s a great source of calcium, iron, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s also known for its slow-release carbohydrates, which help keep you feeling full and energized.

Can I use a different type of milk in this recipe?

Absolutely! Oat milk, cashew milk, soy milk, or even regular dairy milk will work well.

Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

You can prepare the spiced milk base ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Then, simply whisk in the ragi flour and simmer when you’re ready to enjoy.

How can I adjust the spice level?

Easily! Add more or fewer cloves and cardamom pods to suit your taste.

What if I don’t have maple syrup? What can I substitute?

Honey, agave nectar, jaggery (gur), or even a little bit of sugar will work as substitutes.

Is ragi flour suitable for people with nut allergies (considering the almond milk)?

If someone has a nut allergy, you’ll need to use a different type of milk – oat milk, soy milk, or coconut milk are good options.