Ragi Puttu
A wholesome and nutritious steamed breakfast from South India. Made with finger millet flour and fresh coconut, this dish has a lovely soft, crumbly texture and is naturally vegan and gluten-free.
For 4 servings
3 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Ragi Flour Mixture
- b.In a large mixing bowl, combine the ragi flour and salt. Whisk them together to ensure the salt is evenly distributed.
- c.Begin adding warm water, a tablespoon at a time. Use your fingertips to rub the water into the flour, breaking up any lumps as you go.
- d.Continue this process until the flour is moist and resembles the texture of wet sand or breadcrumbs. The mixture should not be a paste or a dough.
- e.To test for the correct consistency, take a small amount of the mixture in your fist and press it. It should hold its shape. When you gently press it again with your finger, it should crumble easily.
- f.Cover the bowl and let the mixture rest for 10 minutes. This allows the flour to absorb the moisture evenly.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Layer and Steam the Puttu
- b.Fill the base of a puttu steamer (puttu kutti) with about 2-3 cups of water and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
- c.Place the perforated disc at the bottom of the cylindrical steamer tube. Start by adding a 1-inch layer (about 2 tablespoons) of grated coconut.
- d.Gently spoon the prepared ragi mixture on top of the coconut, filling it about halfway up the tube. Do not press or pack the flour down, as this will result in a hard puttu.
- e.Add another layer of grated coconut, followed by the remaining ragi mixture. Finish with a final layer of coconut on top.
- f.Place the lid on the tube and fit it securely onto the base pot where the water is boiling.
- g.Steam for 10-12 minutes. The puttu is cooked when a steady stream of steam is released from the vents on the lid. You will also notice a pleasant cooked aroma.
- h.If you don't have a puttu steamer, you can use an idli stand. Grease the idli plates, fill them with the ragi mixture, and steam for 10-12 minutes.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Serve Hot
- b.Once cooked, carefully remove the cylindrical tube from the pot using a kitchen towel.
- c.Remove the lid and use the provided rod or a long wooden spoon handle to gently push the steamed puttu out from the bottom onto a serving plate.
- d.Serve immediately while hot. Ragi Puttu pairs wonderfully with ripe bananas, a sprinkle of sugar or jaggery, and a drizzle of ghee. For a savory option, serve it with kadala curry (black chickpea curry) or green gram curry.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a perfectly soft texture, ensure you add water very gradually. Rushing this step can create a lumpy or doughy mixture.
- 2Always keep the flour mixture light and airy when filling the steamer. Compacting it will prevent steam from passing through and cooking it evenly.
- 3Using warm water to moisten the flour helps in achieving a softer puttu.
- 4If you find lumps in your mixture after adding water, you can pulse it in a mixie or food processor for a few seconds to get a uniform, crumbly texture.
- 5Ragi puttu is best enjoyed fresh and hot. It tends to become dry and hard as it cools down.
Adapt it for your goals.
Sweet Puttu
Mix 1/4 cup of powdered jaggery or brown sugar into the ragi flour mixture before steaming for a naturally sweet version.
Savory PuttuSavory Puttu
Add 1/4 cup of finely chopped shallots, 1 finely chopped green chili, and 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds to the ragi mixture for a spicy, savory breakfast.
Vegetable PuttuVegetable Puttu
Incorporate finely grated carrots or beetroot into the coconut layers for added nutrition and color.
Multi Millet PuttuMulti-Millet Puttu
Create a healthier blend by using a mix of ragi flour, pearl millet (bajra) flour, and jowar flour.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Promotes Bone Health
Ragi is one of the best non-dairy sources of calcium, which is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth and preventing osteoporosis.
Aids in Digestion and Weight Management
The high dietary fiber content keeps you full for longer, reducing cravings and aiding in weight loss. It also promotes healthy digestion and prevents constipation.
Excellent for Diabetics
Ragi has a low glycemic index, meaning it releases sugar into the bloodstream slowly. This helps in managing blood sugar levels, making it an ideal food for people with diabetes.
Naturally Gluten-Free
As a gluten-free grain, ragi is a safe and nutritious option for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Ragi Puttu is exceptionally healthy. Ragi (finger millet) is a gluten-free superfood rich in calcium, iron, and dietary fiber. It aids in weight management, helps control blood sugar levels, and promotes bone health. Steaming is a healthy cooking method that preserves nutrients.