How to Sprout Ragi (Finger Millet):

You’ll need:

  • 500g of Ragi
  • Sufficient water

Instructions:

  1. Examine the Ragi for impurities, and rinse it thoroughly with water, repeating this step 3 to 4 times.
  2. After rinsing, soak the Ragi in clean water for 12 hours. Be sure to change the water after 6 hours to prevent it from becoming stale and developing an unpleasant odor. Use twice the amount of water as Ragi to ensure thorough soaking.
  3. Drain the water after 12 hours, transfer the Ragi to a clean cloth, tie it, and place it in a container. Cover it with a plate and leave it in a cool corner for the next 12 hours to allow it to sprout. Typically, when you tie it in the cloth, the cloth will be damp, which is sufficient for sprouting. However, if it is not damp enough, check it after 6 hours. If the cloth is dry, sprinkle a small amount of water on it, but not too much. Just enough to keep it damp. You can leave it for 12 hours, or for further sprouting, up to 24 hours.
  4. Remove it from the cloth, and if it becomes too sticky, rinse it with cold water again. Transfer the sprouted Ragi onto a clean dry cloth to air dry.
  5. Once air-dried, use a heavy-bottomed pan to dry roast it in batches for proper roasting. After roasting, let it cool completely, and then grind it into a powder.
  6. Mix this powder with jaggery syrup, coconut scrapings, cardamom powder, and a bit of ghee to make ladoos. Consume one daily to boost your iron levels and overall immunity. Due to its low glycemic levels, it helps prevent spikes in blood sugar levels. Ragi is rich in calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, vitamin C, vitamin E, fiber, and more, which also promotes strong bones when consumed daily.

Watermelon Rind Halwa:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of grated watermelon rind (you can use a food processor to grate)
  • 1/2 cup of sugar
  • 1/2 cup of milk
  • 1/4 cup of ghee
  • Cashews
  • Cardamom powder

Instructions:

  1. Heat a tablespoon of ghee in a pan, and add the grated watermelon rind. Cook on low flame for about 10-15 minutes.
  2. Add milk and continue cooking until the milk evaporates.
  3. Add sugar and mix until the mixture thickens.
  4. Finally, add cashews and cardamom powder.

Enjoy your delicious Watermelon Rind Halwa!

Ms. Archana Pai, Maradu, Cochin

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