Soft & Delicious Ragi Mudde Recipe – Karnataka Style Ragi Balls
Ragi Mudde, a traditional dish from Karnataka, is an iconic staple food, particularly loved by farmers in the rural regions of the state. Known for its simplicity and health benefits, Ragi Mudde is made with Ragi flour, also called Finger Millet or Nagli, which is a rich source of fiber, calcium, and iron. This dish is perfect for anyone seeking a nutritious and hearty meal, especially diabetic-friendly diets. The technique behind making perfect Ragi Mudde is an art passed down through generations. Each family has their own method, but the key to making it successful lies in getting the proportions and the stirring technique just right. With its mild flavor and smooth texture, Ragi Mudde is often paired with flavorful curries or vegetable dishes to elevate the meal.
This Ragi Mudde Recipe will guide you through the steps to make soft, delicious, and authentic Karnataka-style Ragi balls that will complement any curry or vegetable dish perfectly. Follow along to master this traditional and wholesome dish that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Hot water | 2-1/2 cups |
| Ragi Flour (Finger Millet/ Nagli) | 1 cup |
| Ghee | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Instructions
-
Heat Water and Add Salt
Begin by heating 2-1/2 cups of water in a saucepan over medium heat. Add salt to the water and bring it to a boil. Once the water reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low. -
Add Ragi Flour and Stir
Gradually add 3 tablespoons of ragi flour to the boiling water, whisking constantly to ensure no lumps form. Continue stirring until the mixture starts to thicken. -
Add Remaining Ragi Flour
Once the initial flour has fully incorporated, continue adding the remaining ragi flour spoon by spoon. Keep stirring vigorously to ensure smoothness and prevent lumps from forming. This is a critical step for achieving the right texture of the Ragi Mudde. -
Allow the Mixture to Cook
Allow the mixture to cook for about 5 minutes. If you’re making a larger batch, you may want to cover the pan with a lid and leave it to cook. During this time, the ragi mixture will thicken considerably. -
Incorporate Ghee
When the mixture has thickened completely, add 2 tablespoons of ghee to the ragi flour mixture. Continue stirring for an additional 10 minutes until the mixture starts to shine and has a smooth, cohesive consistency. -
Test for Doneness
Taste the ragi mudde to ensure that it has cooked fully and that no raw taste remains. This step is crucial for ensuring the perfect texture and flavor of your Ragi Mudde. -
Shape the Ragi Mudde
To shape the Ragi Mudde into balls, grease a small bowl or plate with a little ghee or oil. Using a spoon, take approximately 2 large tablespoons of the ragi mixture and start twirling it around gently in the bowl to form a smooth, round ball. Be sure to shape the Ragi Mudde while it’s still hot, as it will be easier to form. -
Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Ragi Mudde hot, alongside a spicy curry or vegetable dish like Chicken Saaru or Huli Soppu Saaru for a traditional Karnataka lunch experience. Ragi Mudde can also be paired with a fresh vegetable side like Sabbasige Palya, a spiced fenugreek leaves dish, or a cooling raita.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
| Iron | 2.5mg |
| Calcium | 80mg |
Tips for the Perfect Ragi Mudde
- Stir Constantly: One of the most important steps in making Ragi Mudde is constant stirring while the flour is added. Stirring helps prevent lumps and ensures the mixture thickens evenly.
- Adjust Consistency: Depending on how thick or soft you like your Ragi Mudde, you can adjust the water proportion slightly. For softer mudde, you can add a little more water.
- Serve Immediately: Ragi Mudde is best served hot. Shape the balls immediately after cooking, as the mixture hardens quickly as it cools.
- Pairing Suggestions: Ragi Mudde pairs well with spicy, tangy gravies, vegetable stir-fries, or even a bowl of dal for a complete meal.
Ragi Mudde is not only a healthful meal but also a nostalgic dish that connects you to Karnataka’s rich culinary traditions. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch, dinner, or as part of a festive meal, this dish will surely bring comfort and nourishment to your table.
