Beat the summer heat with a refreshing glass of Ragi Kool (also known as Kabab Kool), a traditional South Indian drink brimming with health benefits and delightful flavor. This creamy, subtly sweet beverage is made from ragi, a nutritious millet packed with fiber, calcium, and iron. Unlike many sugary summer drinks, Ragi Kool offers a natural sweetness and cooling effect, making it a guilt-free indulgence perfect for hot days. Its unique texture and earthy flavor profile make it a truly distinctive and satisfying drink.
Ragi Kool is surprisingly simple to prepare, requiring only a few readily available ingredients. Forget complicated recipes and long preparation times; this drink is quick to whip up, leaving you more time to enjoy the delicious results. Ready to learn how to make this revitalizing summer cooler? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Heavy-bottomed vessel
- Whisk or spoon
Ingredients
- Ragi flour: 2 cups
- Water: 4 cups
- Thick yogurt: 1 cup
- Coriander leaves: A handful
- Green chilies: 2
- Small onions: A handful
- Salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Preparing the Ragi Base
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup ragi flour and 1 cup water. Mix well. Add the remaining 1 cup of water and mix until smooth.
- Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a heavy-bottomed vessel.
- Add the ragi flour mixture to the boiling water and whisk constantly until it thickens and turns dark in color.
- Reduce heat and continue stirring until the mixture is thick and doesn’t stick to the pan.
- Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool completely.
Step 2. Soaking and Kneading the Ragi
- Once cool enough to handle, wet your hands with water and roll the mixture into small balls.
- Place the balls in a vessel and add enough water to submerge them completely. Gently knead until well submerged.
- Cover and let it soak overnight (at least 8 hours).
- After 8 hours, knead the soaked mixture well until it’s smooth and lump-free.
Step 3. Adding Flavor and Texture
- Add 1 cup of thick yogurt, chopped coriander, green chilies, chopped small onions, and salt. Mix well.
- Add a little water to adjust the consistency if needed.
Step 4. Serving the Ragi Kool
- Mix thoroughly and serve.
Read more: Vegan Carrot Halwa: Easy Indian Dessert Recipe
Tips
- For best results, use an earthen vessel to soak the ragi balls.
- Adjust the amount of green chilies according to your spice preference.
- This drink is best enjoyed cold and is refreshing to consume on an empty stomach in the morning.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought ragi flour instead of grinding the ragi myself?
Yes, absolutely! Store-bought ragi flour works perfectly well. Just ensure it's fresh and of good quality.
2. What can I do if my Ragi Kool is too thick?
Add a little more water or milk to thin it out to your desired consistency. Start with small amounts and stir well.
3. Can I add other flavors to my Ragi Kool?
Definitely! Experiment with cardamom, ginger, or a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor. A squeeze of lime juice also adds a nice tang.
So there you have it – a simple yet incredibly refreshing Ragi Kool recipe perfect for those scorching summer days. This healthy and delicious drink is a fantastic alternative to sugary sodas, providing a nutritious and flavorful way to stay cool. Enjoy this traditional treat and share the recipe with your friends and family!