Ragi Halwa is a nutritious and delicious Indian dessert made with ragi (finger millet), ghee, jaggery, and nuts. This gluten-free sweet dish is rich in essential nutrients like calcium, iron, and fibre, making it an excellent choice for a healthy dessert. In this blog, we will explore how to make Ragi Halwa and its nutritional information, ensuring you enjoy both taste and health benefits.
Health Benefits of Ragi Halwa
- High in Calcium – Supports bone health and prevents osteoporosis.
- Rich in Dietary Fiber – Aids digestion and promotes gut health.
- Iron-Rich – Helps boost hemoglobin levels and prevents anemia.
- Gluten-Free – Ideal for individuals with gluten intolerance.
- Regulates Blood Sugar – The complex carbs in ragi slow glucose release.
- Boosts Energy – Provides sustained energy and is great for kids and elders.
Ingredients Required
To make Ragi Halwa, you will need:
- 1 cup ragi flour (finger millet flour)
- ½ cup jaggery (powdered)
- 2 cups milk (or water for a vegan option)
- ¼ cup ghee (clarified butter)
- ¼ cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, raisins – chopped)
- 1 teaspoon cardamom powder
- 2 tablespoons grated coconut (optional)
Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Ragi Halwa
Step 1: Roast the Ragi Flour
- Heat a pan on low-medium flame.
- Add ghee and ragi flour, roast until it releases a nutty aroma (5-7 minutes).
- Stir continuously to prevent burning.
Step 2: Prepare Jaggery Syrup
- Heat a pan, add jaggery with ½ cup water.
- Stir until the jaggery melts completely. Strain to remove impurities if needed.
Step 3: Cook the Halwa
- Slowly pour warm milk (or water) into the roasted ragi flour while stirring.
- Mix well to avoid lumps and cook for 5 minutes until it thickens.
- Add the filtered jaggery syrup and continue stirring.
Step 4: Enhance Flavor
- Add cardamom powder and grated coconut.
- Stir until the mixture starts leaving the sides of the pan.
- Garnish with chopped nuts and mix well.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer to a greased plate or bowl.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Nutritional Information of Ragi Halwa (Per Serving – Approximate Values)
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 180 kcal |
Protein | 4g |
Carbohydrates | 25g |
Fiber | 3g |
Calcium | 60mg |
Iron | 1.5mg |
Healthy Fats | 6g |
Sugar | 10g |
Tips for Making Perfect Ragi Halwa
- Use fresh ingredients for the best taste and nutrition.
- Adjust sweetness by modifying the jaggery quantity.
- For a vegan version, replace ghee with coconut oil and milk with almond milk.
- Store in an airtight container and consume within 2 days.
Ragi Halwa is a perfect blend of nutrition and flavor, making it an excellent dessert for health-conscious individuals. With high calcium, fiber, and iron content, it supports overall well-being. Try this simple and quick recipe at home for a healthy, homemade sweet treat!
If you found this recipe helpful, share it with friends and family!
Enjoy making and savoring this delicious and healthy Ragi Halwa!