With the fads fading away for good, superfoods are paving their way back into the spotlight. The media has gone into a frenzy over this wonder millet, over this wonder millet, we keep hearing only praise for this grain. But, why is that good? Let’s find out below.
Before we answer that question, Nachni or Ragi is a less known wonder grain widely grown in the state of Karnataka. It is one of the few cereals that needn’t be polished, hence it is a whole grain which makes it healthier than its counterparts. Here’s why Nachni is good for you:
1. Calcium Rich
No more chugging down gallons of milk for calcium! Nachni is the only cereal which is abundant in calcium, with 100 grams containing 344 mg of calcium. Since calcium plays a huge role in bone development and prevention of osteoporosis, growing children and adults can reap all its benefits from nachni.
2. High Fibre Content
In comparison to other cereals, nachni also scores full points on fibre content. Since, it is a high fibre cereal it aids digestion, prevents over-eating and makes you feel full for a longer span of time. The amino acids in nachni help in decreasing the cholesterol levels of your body by getting rid of the excess fat in the liver.
3. Battles Anemia
Popping those pills for iron can’t be good for anyone. Since nachni is a good natural source of iron, nachni based roti or halwa supplements your body with a good dose of iron.
4. Regulates Blood Sugar
Since the grain is too small to be polished the bran is retained. The high polyphenol and fibre content of nachni has another perk, restrained build in glucose level! Diabetic patients can include nachni in their diets and benefit immensely from this wholesome grain. The lower GI index in nachni keeps the glucose levels stable.
5. Beneficial For Weight loss
Wanting to lose those last few kilos? Surprise, surprise! The natural fat content in nachni is lower than all other cereals. Also, this fat is in its unsaturated form. Thus, including it in your diet is a good choice for people trying to lose weight.
Nachni is great if included as a part of your staple diet with all its essential nutrients, amino acids and minerals. Use this quick recipe next time you cook with nachni or ragi flour.
Nachni Halwa
Desserts are loved and feared by all. We always believe you should take the healthy route instead of giving up on them altogether. Have your cake and eat it too with this rich flavoured nachni halwa. Substituting with nachni makes the Indian traditional dessert nutritious and yet rich in flavour!
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup healthy alternatives – organi ragi flour
• 4 tbsp. healthy alternatives – cow ghee
• 1 cup hot milk
• 1/4 cup healthy alternatives – organic sugar
• 1/4 tsp. cardamom powder
For garnish
• 6 healthy alternatives – american almonds (slivered)
• 6 healthy alternatives – pistachios (slivered)
Instructions:
1. Heat ghee in a pan and add the flour. Cook this on low flame for 4 mins till the mixture starts to bubble. At this point add sugar and stir well for 2 mins.
2. Add the milk slowly and keep stirring the halwa till it thickens.
3. Add the cardamom powder and mix well. Switch off the flame and transfer to a dish and let it cool.
4. Garnish it with almonds and pistachios and serve.
Excited to take the healthy route? Find all the freshest and healthy ingredients at your nearest Natures Basket store.
Another health trend following around are chia seeds. Learn how to inculcate them in your meals by checking out Easy Recipes With Chia Seeds.
