How to make ragi malt drink

What is Ragi Malt?

Ragi malt is a warm drink that is made by cooking ragi flour with water and milk, then sweetening it with jaggery or sugar. The drink has a smooth consistency, a sweet taste, and a rich aroma, thanks to the spices and nuts that are often added to it. Ragi malt is gluten-free and vegan, as it does not contain any gluten or animal products. It is a complete meal in itself, as it provides all the essential nutrients, such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals, that the body needs. Ragi malt is ideal for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or as a snack in between meals.

Nutritional Benefits of Ragi Malt

Ragi malt is one of the most nutritious drinks that you can consume. It is rich in calcium, which is vital for bone health and preventing osteoporosis. Ragi malt also contains iron, which helps in the formation of red blood cells and prevents anemia. It is also high in fiber, which aids digestion and lowers cholesterol levels. Furthermore, ragi malt has a low glycemic index, which means that it does not cause spikes in blood sugar levels. This makes it suitable for people with diabetes or those who want to control their weight.

Ingredients for Ragi Malt Drink

The basic ingredients for ragi malt are ragi flour, milk, water, and jaggery or sugar. You can also add spices such as cardamom powder, cinnamon powder, nutmeg powder, or ginger powder, according to your taste and preference. You can also include nuts such as almonds, cashews, walnuts, pistachios, or hazelnuts, as well as raisins, dates, or figs, for added flavor and nutrition. The quantity of each ingredient will depend on how much ragi malt you want to make and how strong or mild you want the flavor to be.

Preparing Ragi Flour

Ragi flour can be bought from the market, or you can make it at home. To make ragi flour at home, you need to wash and soak ragi grains in water for about 4-5 hours, or overnight. Then, you have to drain the water and dry the grains in the sun or an oven, until they become crisp. After that, you have to grind the grains in a mixer or a grinder, until you get a fine powder. You can sieve the powder through a fine mesh or a cloth, to remove any impurities or lumps. Store the ragi flour in an airtight container, until you are ready to use it.

Making Ragi Malt

The process of making ragi malt is easy and simple. First, you have to mix ragi flour with water in a bowl, and whisk it well to make a smooth paste without any lumps. Next, you have to heat milk or water in a pan, and add the ragi paste to it, while stirring continuously. You have to cook the mixture on a medium flame, until it thickens and the raw smell of ragi goes away. After that, you have to add jaggery or sugar to the mixture, and stir well until it dissolves completely. You can adjust the quantity of sweetener, according to your taste and preference. Finally, you can pour the ragi malt into a glass or a cup, and serve it hot or cold, as you like.

Suggestions and Variations

Ragi malt can be customized and varied, according to your taste and preference. You can use different types of milk, such as whole milk, skimmed milk, or toned milk, or even plant-based milk, such as almond milk, soy milk, coconut milk, or oat milk. You can also use different types of sweeteners, such as honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar, or even fruits, such as banana, apple, or mango, to add natural sweetness and flavor to the drink. You can also add different types of spices, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, to enhance the taste, aroma, and nutrition of the ragi malt. For example, you can add cardamom powder, cinnamon powder, nutmeg powder, or ginger powder, for a warm and spicy flavor. You can also add almonds, cashews, walnuts, pistachios, or hazelnuts, for a crunchy and nutty texture. You can also add raisins, dates, or figs, for a chewy and sweet flavor.

Ragi Malt and Weight Loss

Ragi malt can also be beneficial for weight loss, as it is low in calories and fat, and high in fiber and protein. Fiber and protein help you feel full and satiated for longer periods, and prevent overeating and snacking. Ragi malt also has a low glycemic index, which means that it does not cause sudden spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels, which can lead to weight gain and fatigue. Ragi malt also boosts metabolism and burns calories, by providing the body with the energy and nutrients that it needs. Ragi malt can be consumed as a meal replacement or as a snack, before or after a workout, to help you lose weight and maintain a healthy body.

Storage of Ragi Malt

Ragi malt is best consumed fresh, as it tends to lose its flavor and nutrients over time. However, if you want to store it for later use, you can refrigerate it in an airtight container or a jar, for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze it in an ice cube tray or a freezer bag, and consume it as and when required. Before consuming the stored ragi malt, you can reheat it on a stove or a microwave, and add some water or milk, to restore its original consistency and taste.

conclusion

In conclusion, ragi malt is a traditional, wholesome, and nutrient-dense drink that has been loved by generations of people in India and around the world. It is easy to make at home, with simple and affordable ingredients. It is also highly nutritious and delicious, with a creamy texture and a sweet and nutty flavor. Ragi malt can be customized and varied, to suit your taste and preference. Ragi malt can also be beneficial for weight loss, as it is low in calories and fat, and high in fiber and protein. So, why not give it a try, and enjoy this nutritious and delicious drink?