By Ragi Cheela, also known as Finger Millet Pancake, is a wholesome and nutritious Indian breakfast or snack dish. Made with ragi flour (finger millet flour), this cheela is an excellent way to add a healthy twist to your regular meals. Ragi is packed with calcium, iron, fiber, and essential amino acids, making it a perfect choice for those looking for a balanced and filling meal. It is especially beneficial for diabetics, weight watchers, and anyone aiming to include more whole grains in their diet.
Introduction to Ragi and Its Benefits
Ragi, or finger millet, is an ancient grain widely used in South India and gradually gaining popularity across the country for its immense health benefits. It is naturally gluten-free and has a low glycemic index, making it a great alternative to refined flours like maida or even wheat flour. Ragi helps regulate blood sugar levels, strengthens bones due to its high calcium content, and aids digestion because of its rich fiber. Including it in daily meals through recipes like Ragi Cheela is an easy and tasty way to stay healthy.
Ingredients Required
To make about 5–6 medium-sized Ragi Cheelas, you will need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- Ragi (Finger Millet) Flour – 1 cup
- Rice Flour or Besan (Gram Flour) – 2 tablespoons (optional, helps with crispness)
- Curd (Yogurt) – 2 tablespoons (optional, for a softer texture)
- Water – as required to make a smooth batter
- Salt – to taste
Vegetables (optional but recommended for flavor and nutrition):
- Onion – 1 small, finely chopped
- Tomato – 1 small, finely chopped
- Green chili – 1, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- Coriander leaves – 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
- Grated carrot – 2 tablespoons
- Capsicum – 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
- Ginger – ½ teaspoon, finely grated
For Cooking:
- Oil or ghee – as needed for roasting
Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Batter
- Take a mixing bowl and add 1 cup of ragi flour.
- Add 2 tablespoons of rice flour or besan if you prefer a slightly crispy texture.
- Mix in salt, finely chopped vegetables, and grated ginger.
- If you want a softer texture, add 2 tablespoons of curd.
- Gradually add water and mix well to form a smooth, lump-free batter. The consistency should be similar to dosa batter—pourable but not too runny.
- Set the batter aside for 10–15 minutes to rest. This allows the ingredients to blend and the ragi to absorb some moisture.
Step 2: Making the Cheela
- Heat a non-stick tawa or iron griddle on medium flame.
- Grease it lightly with oil or ghee using a brush or a paper towel.
- Once the pan is hot, pour a ladleful of batter in the center and spread it gently in a circular motion to form a thin pancake.
- Drizzle a few drops of oil or ghee around the edges and on top.
- Cook the cheela on medium flame until the bottom turns slightly golden brown and crisp.
- Flip it carefully using a spatula and cook the other side for another 1–2 minutes.
- Once both sides are evenly cooked and crisp, remove it from the pan and place it on a plate.
Repeat the same process for the remaining batter.
Serving Suggestions
Ragi Cheela tastes best when served hot. You can pair it with:
- Mint chutney or coriander chutney for a refreshing taste.
- Tomato ketchup for kids.
- Coconut chutney or curd (yogurt) for a wholesome South Indian touch.
- You can also roll it with some paneer bhurji or sautéed vegetables inside to make a healthy ragi wrap.
For a complete breakfast, serve it with a glass of buttermilk or fresh fruit juice.
Variations You Can Try
- Plain Ragi Cheela: Skip the vegetables and make it just with ragi flour, salt, and water for a simple version.
- Stuffed Ragi Cheela: Fill the cheela with paneer, cheese, or mashed spiced potatoes and fold it like a dosa.
- Ragi Moong Cheela: Mix soaked and ground moong dal paste with ragi flour for a protein-rich version.
- Ragi Oats Cheela: Add 2 tablespoons of powdered oats for extra fiber and texture.
- Sweet Ragi Cheela: Add jaggery, cardamom powder, and grated coconut to the batter for a sweet breakfast option.
Health Benefits of Ragi Cheela
- High in Calcium: Great for bone strength and prevents osteoporosis.
- Rich in Iron: Helps combat anemia and boosts hemoglobin levels.
- Weight Management: Keeps you full longer due to its high fiber, reducing unnecessary snacking.
- Diabetic-Friendly: Has a low glycemic index, which helps control blood sugar levels.
- Gluten-Free: Perfect for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
- Good for Digestion: Fiber promotes better gut health and prevents constipation.
Storage Tips
- The batter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Stir well before use, as ragi tends to thicken over time.
- Cooked cheelas are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated on a tawa before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them chewy.
Conclusion
Ragi Cheela is a perfect blend of taste and nutrition. It’s easy to prepare, customizable with your favorite vegetables, and ideal for breakfast, lunch, or a light dinner. Whether you’re on a fitness journey or simply want to eat healthier, this dish fits perfectly into your daily routine. With its earthy flavor, crisp texture, and nutrient-packed goodness, Ragi Cheela proves that healthy food can be both delicious and satisfying.
So, next time you crave something light yet wholesome, skip the usual dosa or paratha and whip up a batch of Ragi Cheelas for a tasty and nourishing treat!
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