Ragi Porridge For Babies | Raagi Java For Toddlers

Introduction

Ragi porridge, also known as Raagi Java, is a nutritious and healthy dish especially beneficial for babies and toddlers. This simple and easy-to-prepare meal can be introduced to babies from their 6th month onwards. Ragi is rich in calcium, iron, and fiber, making it a perfect food for growing babies. It can be made sweet with jaggery or served with yogurt for a savory option. However, when introducing new foods like ragi to a baby, it is essential to start with small quantities and observe if it suits the baby’s digestive system. Gradually increasing the amount can help avoid issues like constipation. Remember, always consult a pediatrician before introducing any new food into a baby’s diet.

Cooking time: 5-10 minutes
Course: Mid-morning snack
Main ingredients: Ragi, jaggery, yogurt

Quick Navigation:

• Ingredients
• Procedure
• Step 1: Boil the Milk or Water
• Step 2: Add Jaggery to the Boiling Liquid
• Step 3: Prepare the Ragi Mixture
• Step 4: Combine and Cook
• Step 5: Cool and Serve
• How to Make Ragi Porridge with Curd or Yogurt
• Step 1: Boil Water
• Step 2: Mix Ragi Powder with Water
• Step 3: Cook the Ragi Mixture
• Step 4: Cool and Add Curd or Yogurt
• Turn Off the Flame After Bubbles Appear
• Let the Porridge Cool to Room Temperature
• Conclusion

Ingredients

Ragi Powder (Organic, preferably): 2-3 tbsp

Mashed Jaggery: 1 tbsp

Boiled Milk (Optional for babies 12+ months): 200 ml

Procedure

Step 1: Boil the Milk or Water

If your baby is over 12 months old, use boiled milk. For babies under 12 months, use boiled water instead.

Step 2: Add Jaggery to the Boiling Liquid

Once the milk or water is boiling, add 1 tbsp of mashed jaggery. Stir well and let it cook on low flame for 2 minutes until the jaggery dissolves completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Ragi Mixture

In a separate bowl, add 50 ml of milk (for babies over 12 months) or water (for babies under 12 months) to 2-3 tbsp of ragi powder. Mix thoroughly to avoid any lumps.

Step 4: Combine and Cook

Slowly add the ragi mixture into the boiling milk or water while continuously stirring. Cook for about 2 minutes on low flame until the mixture thickens and bubbles start forming.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Turn off the flame once bubbles appear. Allow the porridge to cool down to room temperature. Pour it into a feeding bowl and serve the tasty and nutritious ragi porridge to your baby.

How to Make Ragi Porridge with Curd or Yogurt

Step 1: Boil Water

For a savory version of ragi porridge, start by boiling 200 ml of water.

Step 2: Mix Ragi Powder with Water

In a bowl, mix 50 ml of water with 2-3 tbsp of ragi powder. Stir until the mixture is smooth with no lumps.

Step 3: Cook the Ragi Mixture

Gradually add the ragi mixture into the boiling water while stirring constantly. Let it cook on low flame for 2-3 minutes until bubbles form.

Step 4: Cool and Add Curd or Yogurt

Turn off the flame and let the porridge cool down. Once cooled, add 1-2 tbsp of curd or yogurt and mix well.

Turn Off the Flame After Bubbles Appear

Turn off the flame once bubbles are formed in the mixture.

Let the Porridge Cool to Room Temperature

Once the porridge cools down, transfer it to a bowl and serve it to the baby.

If your baby is not fond of plain ragi porridge, you can add a pinch of salt for taste. This healthy and delicious ragi porridge with curd or yogurt is a great option to serve your baby, offering both nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion

Ragi porridge is a versatile and highly nutritious meal for babies and toddlers, whether served sweet with jaggery or savory with yogurt. Rich in essential nutrients like calcium, iron, and fiber, it supports healthy growth and development in young children. Following the simple steps in this guide will help you prepare this traditional dish quickly and easily. Always introduce new foods slowly, and consult your doctor to ensure the food suits your baby's diet. By making ragi porridge a regular part of your baby's diet, you’ll be providing a healthy start to their eating habits. Enjoy this wholesome meal with your little one!