We bring to you the amazing health benefits of baking a ragi cake instead of a normal cake! Read on to find a quick and easy ragi cake recipe! But first, let’s learn more about the superfood called ragi.
Ragi, or finger millet, is a highly nutritious cereal grain grown in Asia and Africa. Gluten-free and rich in fiber, it aids digestion, regulates blood sugar due to its low glycemic index, and provides essential nutrients like calcium and iron. Its versatility allows for a range of dishes, from porridge to flatbreads. Culturally significant, it’s hardy, environmentally friendly, and a staple in many regions. Source
Nutritional Value Of Ragi
Ragi is a nutritional powerhouse, boasting high levels of carbohydrates, dietary fiber, essential amino acids, calcium, iron, and B vitamins. With a low glycemic index, it aids in blood sugar regulation and digestion. Its gluten-free nature makes it suitable for various dietary needs, while its antioxidant content offers potential health benefits.
Ragi Cake Health Benefits
Ragi, or finger millet, offers a range of health benefits. Its low glycemic index aids in blood sugar control. Rich in dietary fiber, it supports digestion and offers a sense of fullness. With essential amino acids, calcium, and iron, it promotes bone health and combats anemia. Its antioxidants contribute to potential health advantages, making it a nutritious addition to diets.
Ragi Cake Advantages
- Healthier Option: Adding ragi flour to cake batter increases the fiber and nutrient content, making the cake a healthier treat compared to traditional cakes made with refined flours.
- Gluten-Free Alternative: Ragi is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent option for individuals with gluten intolerance or those following a gluten-free diet.
- Nutrient Boost: Ragi is rich in calcium, iron, and B vitamins, which can enhance the nutritional profile of your cake.
- Unique Flavor: Ragi imparts a mildly nutty flavor to baked goods, which can add a pleasant taste dimension to your cake.
- Texture Enhancement: Ragi flour can enhance the texture of cakes, adding a slightly dense and hearty quality.
- Natural Sweetness: Ragi has a natural sweetness, which might allow you to reduce the amount of added sugar in your cake recipe.
- Chocolate Variant: You can make a chocolate ragi cake by substituting a portion of the flour with ragi flour in your favorite chocolate cake recipe. This adds nutrients and depth to the flavor.
- Fruit-Infused Ragi Cake: Incorporate fruits like bananas, apples, or berries into your ragi cake batter for added natural sweetness and moisture.
- Spiced Ragi Cake: Create a spiced cake using ragi flour and warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom for a unique and flavorful dessert.
- Nut Toppings: Sprinkle crushed nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pistachios on top of your ragi cake for added crunch and nutrition.
Recipe For Ragi Cake
How to make ragi cake without egg? Yes, Definitely you can make it have a look at a easy recipe here:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ragi flour
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 3/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk (or milk substitute)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the ragi flour, all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk the yogurt and sugar together until the sugar is dissolved.
- Add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract to the yogurt mixture and mix well.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Mix until you have a smooth batter. Be careful not to overmix.
- If using chocolate chips, fold them into the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully remove the cake from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the cake is completely cooled, you can optionally dust it with powdered sugar or top it with a drizzle of melted chocolate.
- Slice and serve the delicious chocolate ragi cake!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ragi flour good for baking?
Yes, Ragi flour is also a good choice for baking.
Who should not take ragi flour?
People having issues such as:
- Kidney-related problems
- constipation
- diarrhea
- thyroid.
Can I eat ragi everyday?
Yes, you can include Ragi in your daily diet.
Does ragi increase blood sugar?
When it comes to maintaining blood sugar and cholesterol levels, ragi is often recommended to diabetics as a good substitute for white rice and wheat.
Is ragi better than wheat?
The health benefits of Ragi far outweigh those of wheat, according to studies.
Is ragi high in protein?
- Protein – 7.7 grams
- Carbohydrates – 72.6 grams
- Fat – 1.5 grams.
Does ragi cause gas?
As Ragi takes a long time to digest, people with indigestion, gas, or constipation should avoid it as well.
Is ragi gluten-free?
It is gluten-free.
Is ragi healthier than rice?
Another widely accessible grain in India that can replace white rice is ragi, also known as finger millet.
How many spoons of ragi per day?
Take 3-4 teaspoons of Ragi flour.
Summary!
Ragi is often considered a “superfood” due to its impressive nutritional profile. It’s rich in calcium, iron, dietary fiber, and essential amino acids. This makes it beneficial for bone health, anemia prevention, and overall well-being. Source
Also Read: 10 Amazing Benefits Of Sattu (Uses And Recipes)
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