Ragi Uttapam Recipe

If you’re looking for a healthy uttapam recipe that’s both delicious and nutritious, then this Ragi Uttapam Recipe is just what you need! Made with finger millet (ragi), horsegram, and red poha, this wholesome pancake is a gluten-free, high-protein, and fiber-rich alternative to traditional uttapam. Unlike regular rice-based uttapam, this millet-based recipe is packed with essential nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a healthy breakfast or light dinner.

Did you know that ragi is one of the richest plant-based sources of calcium? It helps strengthen bones, aids digestion, and regulates blood sugar levels, making it an excellent diabetic-friendly breakfast. When combined with protein-rich horsegram and the natural fermentation process, this dish becomes even more gut-friendly and easy to digest. Plus, with a crispy base, a soft center, and a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables on top, every bite is a burst of flavors and textures.

But the best part? It’s super easy to make! Whether you’re looking to incorporate more millet-based recipes into your diet or simply want a wholesome and comforting meal, this South Indian breakfast recipe is a must-try. So, are you ready to whip up this nutrient-packed, guilt-free indulgence? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients for Ragi Uttapam Recipe

Here’s everything you need to make this healthy millet-based uttapam:

For the Batter:

• 1 cup Ragi Flour (Finger Millet Flour) – The star ingredient, rich in calcium, iron, and fiber, making it excellent for bone health and digestion.
• 1/3 cup Horsegram (Kulthi Dal) – A protein-packed legume that helps in weight management and improves gut health.
• ¼ cup Red Poha (Flattened Rice) – Softens the batter and gives the uttapam a light, fluffy texture.
• 1 tsp Fenugreek Seeds (Methi Seeds) – Aids in fermentation, enha nces flavor, and boosts gut health.
• Water (as needed) – To adjust the batter consistency.
• Salt (to taste) – Enhances the overall flavor.

For the Toppings:

• ½ cup Chopped Onions – Adds crunch and mild sweetness.
• ½ cup Chopped Carrots – Provides a natural sweetness and is packed with Vitamin A.
• ½ cup Chopped Tomatoes – Brings tanginess and juiciness to the uttapam.
• 1 Green Chili (chopped, optional) – Adds a slight kick of heat.
• 1 tbsp Coriander Leaves (chopped) – Enhances the freshness and aroma.
• 1 tsp Oil (for each uttapam) – Helps in crisping up the uttapam while cooking.

Peanut Chutney Ingredients

• ¼ cup roasted peanuts – Adds a rich, nutty flavor and creaminess.
• 2 garlic cloves (roasted) – Enhances the taste with a mild garlic kick.
• 4 dry red chilies (soaked in hot water) – Gives a spicy and smoky flavor. Adjust as per spice preference.
• 1 tbsp grated coconut – Adds a subtle sweetness and enhances texture.
• Salt (as per taste) – Balances the flavors.
• Water (as needed) – Helps blend the chutney to a smooth consistency.

For Tempering (Tadka):

• 1 tsp coconut oil – Adds a nice aroma and enhances flavor.
• ½ tsp mustard seeds – Gives a traditional South Indian touch.
• A few curry leaves – Brings freshness and an authentic taste.
• A pinch of asafoetida (hing) – Aids digestion and adds a mild savory note.

These simple and wholesome ingredients come together to make a nutrient-dense, delicious South Indian breakfast that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Ragi Uttapam Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Batter

Start by washing and rinsing 1 cup ragi flour and 1/3 cup horsegram (kulthi dal) together in the same bowl. This helps remove any impurities and ensures both ingredients are clean. Once washed, soak them in enough water along with ¼ cup red poha (flattened rice) and 1 tsp fenugreek seeds (methi seeds) for 6-8 hours or overnight. Soaking softens the ingredients, making them easier to grind and aiding in fermentation.

After soaking, drain the water completely and grind the ragi, horsegram, poha, and fenugreek seeds into a smooth batter, adding a little water as needed. Transfer the batter to a bowl, add salt to taste, and mix well. Cover and allow it to ferment for another 6-8 hours. Once fermented, your batter is ready to make soft and delicious Ragi Uttapam!

Step 2: Cooking the Uttapam

Heat a tawa (griddle) on medium heat and grease it lightly with oil. Pour a ladleful of fermented batter onto the hot pan and spread it gently to form a small, thick pancake. Keep it slightly thick so the uttapam remains soft inside.

Now, top the uttapam with chopped onions, carrots, tomatoes, green chilies, and coriander leaves. Since my kids love pizza seasoning, I also sprinkled some on top—it’s totally optional, but it adds a nice herby flavor! Drizzle a few drops of oil around the edges, cover the pan, and let it cook for 1 minute until the base turns golden. Flip it carefully and cook for another 1 minute on the other side. Once done, remove from heat and serve hot.

Step 3: Making the Peanut Chutney

To pair with the uttapam, I prepared a flavorful peanut chutney. Take ¼ cup roasted peanuts, 2 garlic cloves (roasted), 4 dry red chilies (soaked in hot water), and 1 tbsp grated coconut. Add salt as per taste and grind everything into a smooth paste with a little water.

For the tadka (tempering), heat coconut oil in a small pan, add ½ tsp mustard seeds, a few curry leaves, and a pinch of asafoetida (hing). Once the mustard seeds start popping, pour the tempering over the chutney.

Step 4: Serving the Ragi Uttapam

Serve the hot and crispy ragi uttapam with this spicy peanut chutney on the side. The combination of the soft millet uttapam with the nutty, flavorful chutney is absolutely delicious. This meal is healthy, gluten-free, and packed with essential nutrients, making it a great option for breakfast, lunch, or even a light dinner. Enjoy!

Watch How It’s Done

Pro Tips for Making the Perfect Ragi Uttapam

• Grind with little water to get a thick, smooth batter and ferment for 6-8 hours in a warm place for soft and fluffy uttapams.
• Heat the tawa properly before pouring the batter to ensure even cooking and a golden crust.
• Keep the uttapam thick and add chopped veggies immediately so they stick well. Sprinkle pizza seasoning or cheese for extra flavor if desired.
• Cover while cooking to steam the batter, making it soft inside and crispy outside. Flip only when edges turn golden.
• Store extra batter in the fridge for up to 2-3 days and mix well before using. Serve uttapam hot with chutney or sambar.

Try This Wholesome Ragi Uttapam Today!

Ragi Uttapam is the perfect way to enjoy a healthy, delicious, and satisfying meal while incorporating the goodness of millets into your diet. With its crispy edges, soft center, and flavorful veggie toppings, this dish proves that eating healthy doesn’t mean compromising on taste. Whether you’re making it for yourself or your family, it’s a nutritious choice that everyone will love!

So, why not give it a try? Make this Ragi Uttapam at home and experience its amazing flavors! If you do, I’d love to hear about it—drop a comment below and let me know how it turned out. And if you want a detailed step-by-step guide, watch the full recipe video for an easy walkthrough. Happy cooking!

FAQs About Ragi Uttapam