Ragi (Finger Millet) Chocolate Brownie Recipe
Introduction
The Ragi (Finger Millet) Chocolate Brownie is an innovative and healthy twist on the classic chocolate brownie. Featuring the rich, earthy flavors of ragi flour and the added crunch of slivered almonds, this dessert is not only indulgent but also packed with nutritional benefits. Ragi, a gluten-free whole grain, is high in fiber and rich in essential minerals like calcium and iron, making it a great alternative to traditional all-purpose flour. Paired with the decadence of cocoa powder, this brownie brings a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for a festive treat or a delightful dessert to enjoy any day of the week, these Ragi Chocolate Brownies will surely impress. They’re the ideal choice for any occasion, especially when dusted with a light sprinkle of sugar for a delicate touch.
This dessert is the easiest, most fool-proof brownie recipe you’ll ever whip up in your kitchen, and with the added goodness of ragi and almonds, it also makes for a healthier indulgence. It’s the perfect treat to share with loved ones on special occasions, like Valentine’s Day, or to simply enjoy a sweet moment by yourself.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cocoa Powder | 3/4 cup |
| Brown Sugar (Demerara Sugar) | 1 cup |
| Ragi Flour (Finger Millet/Nagli) | 1/2 cup (Ragi huri hittu is best to use) |
| Whole Wheat Flour | 1/2 cup |
| Butter (Unsalted) | 200 grams (softened) |
| Whole Eggs | 2 whole |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Baking Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Milk | 2 tablespoons |
| Slivered Almonds (Badam) | To taste (or chopped walnuts) |
Allergen Information
- Dairy: Contains butter (unsalted).
- Eggs: This recipe includes whole eggs, making it unsuitable for those with egg allergies.
- Nuts: Contains slivered almonds (or walnuts if preferred), which are a potential allergen for those with nut sensitivities.
- Gluten: While the recipe includes whole wheat flour, it still contains gluten, so it is not suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian: This recipe is completely vegetarian, making it suitable for those following a vegetarian diet.
- Gluten: The recipe uses whole wheat flour, which contains gluten. You can substitute with gluten-free flour blends for a gluten-free version if desired.
Preparation Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking tin with a little butter or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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Melt the Butter: In a saucepan, melt the butter over very low heat. Be careful not to let it bubble or boil. Once the butter is fully melted, add the sieved cocoa powder and stir until it forms a smooth, gooey consistency.
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Add Vanilla and Brown Sugar: Stir in the vanilla extract to the melted cocoa-butter mixture. Add the brown sugar, stirring continuously until the sugar begins to dissolve slightly. The mixture should be smooth but not fully melted—just enough for the sugar to soften.
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Sift Dry Ingredients: Sift the ragi flour, whole wheat flour, and baking powder together into a separate bowl. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring well to combine. Ensure no lumps remain.
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Incorporate the Eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs well using a hand mixer or a whisk. Add the whisked eggs to the batter mixture and stir to combine. The mixture will become slightly thick, but that’s perfectly fine.
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Add the Almonds or Walnuts: Stir in your slivered almonds (or chopped walnuts) for an extra crunch. These will add a delightful texture to the brownies once baked.
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Adjust Consistency with Milk: To ensure the batter has the right consistency, add about 2 tablespoons of milk. Stir gently, but be careful not to add too much milk, as you want a thick, fudgy batter.
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Bake: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared greased baking tin and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. However, oven times can vary, so start checking at the 20-minute mark. Insert a toothpick or tester into the center of the brownies—if it comes out clean, your brownies are ready.
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Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the tin. This is essential for achieving the perfect texture. Once cooled, cut the brownies into squares.
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Storage: Store the Ragi (Finger Millet) Chocolate Brownies in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to keep them fresh. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Conclusion
These Ragi (Finger Millet) Chocolate Brownies combine the best of health and indulgence in one sweet treat. With the unique addition of ragi, these brownies are a wonderful way to enjoy a nutritious dessert without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them quietly at home, these brownies are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings and impress anyone who tries them. The melt-in-your-mouth texture, rich chocolate flavor, and nutty crunch of almonds make these brownies a deliciously unforgettable dessert option.
For a special touch, dust them with a little powdered sugar before serving, and enjoy them as a unique dessert for Valentine’s Day or any celebration. They are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike!
So, whip up a batch of these Ragi Chocolate Brownies, and savor the goodness of ragi in every bite!
