Ragi Ladoo Recipe | Easy & Healthy Nachni Laddu
Make soft, nutritious Ragi Ladoo with jaggery and ghee — a wholesome Indian sweet rich in calcium and iron. Perfect for winter immunity and kids’ tiffin!
Ragi Ladoo — also known as Nachni Laddu or Finger Millet Ladoo — is a traditional Indian sweet loaded with nutrition and heritage. Made with roasted ragi flour, jaggery, and ghee, this wholesome delight has been a part of Indian households for generations, especially during winters.
Rich in calcium, iron, and fiber, Ragi Ladoo is not just delicious but also a powerful energy booster. In South India, it’s prepared during Navratri and Diwali, while in Maharashtra and Gujarat, it’s often made for postpartum recovery and children’s health.
Let’s explore how to make this nutritious, earthy-flavored sweet with simple ingredients.
Ingredients for Ragi Ladoo
Main Ingredients
1 cup ragi (finger millet) flour
½ cup grated jaggery (gur)
3 tbsp ghee
2 tbsp chopped dry fruits (cashews, almonds)
1 tsp sesame seeds (til)
1 tsp cardamom powder
1 tbsp desiccated coconut (optional)
How to Make Ragi Ladoo (Step-by-Step Recipe)
Step 1: Roast the Ragi Flour
In a thick-bottomed pan, heat 1 tablespoon ghee. Add the ragi flour and roast on low flame for 8–10 minutes. Stir continuously until you get a pleasant nutty aroma.
Tip: The flour should change color slightly and become aromatic. Over-roasting can make it bitter.
Step 2: Add Nuts and Sesame
Add sesame seeds and chopped dry fruits. Roast for another 2 minutes till the nuts turn golden.
Step 3: Prepare Jaggery Mixture
In another pan, add 2 tablespoons ghee and grated jaggery. Heat on low flame until the jaggery melts. Don’t overcook; we only need it to dissolve completely.
Step 4: Combine and Mix
Pour the melted jaggery mixture into the roasted flour. Add cardamom powder and coconut. Mix well while still warm.
Step 5: Shape the Ladoos
While the mixture is warm, grease your palms with a bit of ghee and shape into medium-sized balls.
Allow them to cool and set. Store in an airtight container.
Quick Facts
| Fact | Value |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Servings | 10 ladoos |
| Shelf Life | Up to 10 days (room temp) |
| Best Season | Winter |
Health Benefits of Ragi Ladoo
Rich in Calcium: Great for bone strength and kids’ growth.
Iron-Rich: Helps improve hemoglobin levels.
High Fiber: Aids digestion and keeps you full longer.
No Refined Sugar: Sweetened naturally with jaggery.
Gluten-Free: Ideal for gluten-intolerant diets.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ragi Ladoo as a healthy snack with warm milk or herbal tea.
They make a perfect pre-workout or breakfast energy bite, especially for growing kids and busy professionals.
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
In hot weather, refrigerate to prevent melting.
Always use a dry spoon to avoid moisture.
Expert Tips
Add powdered peanuts for a nuttier taste.
For vegan version: replace ghee with coconut oil.
Add flaxseed powder for extra omega-3 boost.
Regional Variation: Maharashtrian Nachni Laddu
In Maharashtra, Nachni Laddus are often made with jaggery syrup (paak) and dry coconut, making them firmer and more aromatic.
In Tamil Nadu, it’s called Ragi Urundai, usually made with palm jaggery and cardamom for a deeper caramel note.
The Ragi Ladoo Recipe is the perfect combination of tradition and nutrition — a sweet that truly celebrates the wisdom of Indian kitchens.
Include these earthy, healthy Nachni Laddus in your daily routine for natural energy and immunity.
Try next: Til Ladoo Recipe and Dry Fruit Ladoo for more winter delights.
FAQs on Ragi Ladoo Recipe
1. Is Ragi Ladoo good for weight loss?
Yes! Ragi Ladoo is high in fiber, which keeps you full longer and prevents overeating.
2. Can I make Ragi Ladoo without ghee?
You can use coconut oil as a substitute, but ghee gives better flavor and texture.
3. Is Ragi Ladoo safe for toddlers?
Absolutely. Introduce small portions (from 1 year onwards) as it’s calcium-rich and easily digestible.
4. Why did my Ragi Ladoos turn dry?
Add more ghee or jaggery syrup; dryness usually comes from over-roasting or less moisture.
5. How long can I store Ragi Ladoo?
They last up to 10 days at room temperature or 2 weeks refrigerated.
