Ragi Roti
A wholesome, gluten-free flatbread made from finger millet flour, onions, and spices. This rustic and nutritious roti is soft, flavorful, and a healthy alternative to wheat chapatis, perfect with chutney or curry.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Dough Mixture
- b.In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of ragi flour, 1 finely chopped medium onion, 2 finely chopped green chilies, 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves, 1 tsp cumin seeds, and 0.75 tsp of salt.
- c.Mix all the dry ingredients thoroughly with your hands to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Knead the Dough
- b.Boil about 1.5 cups of water. Gradually pour the hot water into the flour mixture, using a spoon to mix initially as it will be very hot.
- c.Add water little by little until the flour comes together. Once it's cool enough to touch, knead for 3-4 minutes to form a soft, smooth, and pliable dough.
- d.The dough should be soft but not sticky. Cover and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Shape the Rotis
- b.Divide the rested dough into 8 equal-sized portions and roll them into smooth balls.
- c.Place a sheet of parchment paper, a banana leaf, or a clean, damp cotton cloth on a flat surface.
- d.Take one dough ball, place it in the center, and gently pat it with your fingertips. Spread it outwards to form a thin, round circle about 5-6 inches in diameter.
- e.If your fingers stick to the dough, dip them in a small bowl of water.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Cook the Roti
- b.Heat a tawa (flat skillet) over medium heat. Once hot, carefully lift the parchment paper and flip the roti onto your palm, then gently place it on the hot tawa.
- c.Cook for about 1-2 minutes on the first side, until the top changes color and looks slightly cooked.
- d.Drizzle about 1/4 teaspoon of oil around the edges of the roti.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Flip and Finish Cooking
- b.Flip the roti and cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes.
- c.Gently press down on the roti with a spatula to ensure it cooks evenly and gets light brown spots.
- d.The roti is done when both sides are cooked through and have a few brown spots.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Serve
- b.Remove the cooked roti from the tawa and place it in a casserole dish or a container lined with a cloth to keep it soft.
- c.Repeat the shaping and cooking process for all the remaining dough balls.
- d.Serve Ragi Roti hot with yogurt, pickle, chutney, or your favorite curry.
What to keep in mind.
7 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Always use hot water to knead the dough; it gelatinizes the starch in the ragi flour, resulting in softer rotis.
- 2Since ragi flour is gluten-free, the dough cannot be rolled with a rolling pin. Patting with your hands is the best method.
- 3Using parchment paper or a wet banana leaf makes patting the roti much easier and prevents it from sticking and tearing.
- 4Ensure the onions and chilies are very finely chopped, as large pieces can cause the roti to break while patting.
- 5For added nutrition and flavor, you can mix in grated carrots, shredded spinach, or chopped dill leaves into the dough.
- 6Cook the rotis on medium heat. High heat can burn the outside before the inside is cooked, while low heat can make them hard.
- 7Resting the dough for 10 minutes after kneading helps it become more pliable and easier to shape.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetable Ragi Roti
Add 1/2 cup of finely grated carrots, zucchini, or finely chopped spinach (palak) or fenugreek leaves (methi) to the dough for extra nutrients and flavor.
Spiced Ragi RotiSpiced Ragi Roti
Incorporate 1 teaspoon of ginger-garlic paste, 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of garam masala into the flour mixture for a more aromatic and spiced version.
Ragi Roti with SeedsRagi Roti with Seeds
Mix in 1 tablespoon of white sesame seeds or ground flax seeds into the dough for added texture, crunch, and healthy fats.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Supports Bone Health
Ragi is one of the best non-dairy sources of calcium, which is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth and helping to prevent conditions like osteoporosis.
Aids Digestion & Weight Management
The high dietary fiber content promotes a feeling of fullness, which can prevent overeating and aid in weight loss. It also supports healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.
Excellent Gluten-Free Alternative
Naturally gluten-free, Ragi Roti is a safe and nutritious flatbread for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, offering a wholesome substitute for wheat-based breads.
Diabetic-Friendly
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 diabetics.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Ragi Roti is exceptionally healthy. Ragi (finger millet) is a nutrient-dense grain rich in calcium, iron, and fiber. It is naturally gluten-free, helps in weight management, and is excellent for people with diabetes due to its low glycemic index.