Fasting Favorites: Ragi Atta Recipes

Introduction

Navratri, a nine-night festival celebrated by Hindus worldwide, is a time of spiritual cleansing and devotion. One of the key practices during Navratri is fasting, which involves abstaining from certain foods and following a strict diet. While fasting can be challenging, it is also an opportunity to explore new and nutritious ingredients. Ragi atta by Nirvana Organic's, a versatile and nutrient-rich flour made from finger millet, is an excellent choice for Navratri fasting. It is gluten-free, packed with fiber, and contains essential minerals and vitamins. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of ragi atta and share a variety of delicious and satisfying recipes that are perfect for Navratri fasting.

Understanding Nirvana Organic's Ragi Atta

Ragi atta, also known as finger millet flour or nachni flour, is a staple ingredient in South Indian cuisine. It is made from finger millet, a grain that is rich in iron, calcium, and fiber. Ragi atta has a slightly nutty flavor and a grainy texture. It is a popular choice for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity as it is naturally gluten-free.

Health Benefits of Ragi Atta by Nirvana Organic

• Rich in nutrients: Ragi atta is a good source of iron, calcium, fiber, and B vitamins.
• Gluten-free: It is a safe option for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
• Improves digestion: The fiber in ragi atta helps to promote healthy digestion and prevent constipation.
• Controls blood sugar levels: Ragi atta has a low glycemic index, which means it helps to regulate blood sugar levels.
• Supports weight management: The fiber and protein in ragi atta can help you feel full and satisfied, reducing cravings and promoting weight loss.

Ragi Atta Recipes for Navratri Fasting

Now, let's explore some delicious and nutritious ragi atta recipes that are suitable for Navratri fasting. These recipes are easy to prepare and can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

1. Ragi Idli

Idli is a popular South Indian breakfast dish made from fermented rice and lentils. This recipe uses ragi atta as a substitute for rice, making it a healthier and gluten-free option.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup ragi atta by Nirvana Organic
• 1/2 cup urad dal (husked black gram)
• 1/4 cup sambar powder
• 1/4 cup podi masala
• 1/4 cup chopped coriander
• 1/4 cup water
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Soak the urad dal in water for 4-5 hours.
2. Grind the soaked urad dal, ragi atta, sambar powder, podi masala, coriander, and salt into a smooth batter.
3. Add water to the batter until it reaches a thick consistency.
4. Let the batter ferment in a warm place for 4-5 hours.
5. Grease an idli steamer with oil.
6. Pour the batter into the greased idli molds.
7. Steam the idlis for 10-15 minutes or until cooked.
8. Serve hot with sambar and coconut chutney.

2. Ragi Dosa

Dosa is another popular South Indian dish made from a thin, crispy crepe. This recipe uses ragi atta to create a healthy and gluten-free dosa.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup ragi atta
• 1/2 cup urad dal (husked black gram)
• 1/4 cup sambar powder
• 1/4 cup podi masala
• 1/4 cup chopped coriander
• 1 cup water
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Follow the same instructions as for the ragi idli recipe to prepare the batter.
2. Heat a non-stick dosa pan over medium heat.
3. Pour a ladleful of batter onto the hot pan and spread it evenly to form a thin, round crepe.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve hot with coconut chutney or sambar.

3. Ragi Upma

Upma is a South Indian breakfast dish made from semolina. This recipe uses ragi atta as a substitute for semolina, making it a healthier and gluten-free option.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup ragi atta
• 1/2 cup chopped onions
• 1/4 cup chopped carrots
• 1/4 cup chopped green beans
• 1/4 cup chopped coriander
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds and let them splutter.
3. Add chopped onions, carrots, green beans, and turmeric powder.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are softened.
5. Add ragi atta and salt to the pan.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously.
7. Add water as needed to achieve a thick consistency.
8. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the ragi atta is cooked and the upma is fluffy.
9. Garnish with chopped coriander.
10. Serve hot with coconut chutney or sambar.

4. Ragi Ladoo

Ladoo is a popular Indian sweet made from flour, sugar, and ghee. This recipe uses ragi atta to create a healthy and gluten-free ladoo.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup ragi atta
• 1/2 cup jaggery, grated
• 1/4 cup ghee
• 1/4 cup chopped almonds
• 1/4 cup chopped cashews
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat ghee in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add ragi atta and roast for 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously.
3. Add jaggery, almonds, cashews, cardamom powder, and salt.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the jaggery melts and the mixture is well combined.
5. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
6. Shape the mixture into small balls and roll in powdered sugar.
7. Serve as a sweet treat during Navratri fasting.

5. Ragi Kheer

Kheer is a popular Indian dessert made from rice or vermicelli cooked in milk. This recipe uses ragi atta to create a healthy and gluten-free kheer.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup ragi atta
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron
• 1/4 cup chopped almonds
• 1/4 cup chopped cashews

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine ragi atta, milk, and sugar.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the ragi atta is cooked and the mixture thickens.
3. Add cardamom powder, saffron, almonds, and cashews.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the flavors are well combined.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
6. Serve chilled as a refreshing dessert during Navratri fasting.

Conclusion

Ragi atta by Nirvana Organic is a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can be used to create a variety of delicious and satisfying dishes. These recipes are just a few examples of how you can incorporate ragi atta into your Navratri fasting diet. By exploring the world of ragi atta, you can enjoy healthy and flavorful meals while maintaining your spiritual practice during this sacred time.