Discover the Delicious World of Rajgira Recipes: Healthy and Gluten-Free Options Aplenty!
Are you looking for a gluten-free alternative that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients? Look no further than Rajgira, also known as amaranth! This ancient grain has been a staple in Indian cuisine for centuries, and for good reason. Not only is it gluten-free, but it’s also rich in protein, fiber, and various essential minerals. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 scrumptious Rajgira recipes that are perfect for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or as a snack.
From sweet treats like Rajgira Kheer (pudding) to savory dishes like Rajgira Kadhi with Pakoras (lentil curry), we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy breakfast option or a flavorful dessert to satisfy your cravings, these recipes are sure to impress.
In the following pages, we’ll delve into each of these mouth-watering recipes, providing you with step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure that your culinary creations turn out perfectly.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive in and explore the wonderful world of Rajgira recipes!
Rajgira Sheera (Amaranth Halwa)
Rajgira sheera is a popular sweet dish made from amaranth grain, commonly enjoyed during special occasions and festivals in India. This creamy halwa is a delightful treat that combines the nutty flavor of amaranth with ghee, sugar, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Rajgira (Amaranth) grains
– 2 tablespoons ghee
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Pinch of saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon milk
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Rinse the amaranth grains and soak them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the water and cook the amaranth in a non-stick pan with 1 cup of water until it forms a mushy paste.
3. Add ghee, sugar, cardamom powder, and saffron-milk mixture to the cooked amaranth. Mix well.
4. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, for about 10-15 minutes or until the mixture thickens and forms a creamy halwa.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rajgira Paratha with Yogurt Dip
Rajgira parathas are a popular Punjabi flatbread made from the flour of amaranth grains, which is rich in protein, fiber, and essential amino acids. This recipe combines the nutritional benefits of rajgira with the creaminess of yogurt to create a satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rajgira atta (amaranth flour)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– For the yogurt dip:
+ 1 cup plain yogurt
+ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
+ 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
+ Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Mix the rajgira atta, salt, and ghee or oil in a bowl.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water to form a smooth dough.
3. Knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough becomes pliable.
4. Divide into 6-8 portions and roll out each portion into a thin circle.
5. Cook on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 30-45 seconds on each side.
6. For the yogurt dip, mix all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate until chilled.
7. Serve the warm parathas with the chilled yogurt dip.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rajgira Panki (Crepes)
Rajgira Panki (Crepes) – A Delightful Maharashtrian Treat
Rajgira Panki is a popular snack from Maharashtra, made with the goodness of wheat flour and buckwheat. These crepes are soft, slightly crispy, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour (maida)
– 1/2 cup buckwheat flour (rajgira atta)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– Ghee or oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour and buckwheat flour.
2. Add salt to taste.
3. Gradually add the lukewarm water to form a smooth batter.
4. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat.
5. Brush the pan with a little ghee or oil.
6. Pour 1/4 cup of the batter into the pan and spread evenly.
7. Cook for about 2 minutes, until the edges start to curl.
8. Flip the panki and cook for another minute.
9. Repeat with remaining batter.
10. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes (depending on the number of pancakes)
Enjoy your delicious Rajgira Panki!
Rajgira Dhokla
Rajgira dhokla is a popular Gujarati snack made with amaranth flour, yogurt, and spices. This crispy and savory flatbread is perfect for a quick breakfast or as a snack to munch on throughout the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rajgira (amaranth) flour
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together rajgira flour, yogurt, baking soda, and salt.
2. Add lemon juice, cumin seeds, and chopped cilantro to the mixture and stir well.
3. Transfer the batter to a non-stick pan or a cast-iron skillet greased with oil.
4. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, until the edges start to curl and the surface is slightly crispy.
5. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the other side is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rajgira Roti with Ghee
Experience the warm, comforting taste of Rajgira Roti paired with a drizzle of pure ghee. This classic Indian recipe is simple to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rajgira (amaranth) flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Ghee, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rajgira flour and salt.
2. Gradually add in the lukewarm water to form a smooth dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until it becomes soft and pliable.
3. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each portion into a ball.
4. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, about 6-7 inches in diameter.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the roti for 30-45 seconds on each side, until it is lightly browned and puffed up slightly.
6. Serve the Rajgira Roti hot with a drizzle of ghee and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Rajgira Puri for Fasting
During fasting periods, it’s essential to have nutritious and filling foods that can sustain you throughout the day. Rajgira Puri is a traditional Indian recipe made from amaranth flour, which is rich in protein, fiber, and nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rajgira atta (amaranth flour)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– Ghee or oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the rajgira atta and salt.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water to the flour mixture and knead until a smooth dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each portion into a ball.
4. Use your thumbs to flatten each ball into a thin circle, about 3-4 inches in diameter.
5. Brush the puris with ghee or oil.
6. Cook the puris on a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 2 minutes per batch
Rajgira Kadhi with Pakoras
Rajgira Kadhi is a popular Gujarati dish that warms the heart and soul on chilly winter days. This recipe combines the comforting flavors of chickpea flour soup (Kadhi) with crispy pakoras, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
For the Kadhi:
– 1 cup rajgira (amaranth) flour
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 small tomato, diced
– 1 green chili, chopped
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
For the Pakoras:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, heat the ghee or oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Add the diced tomato, green chili, and salt. Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Mix in the rajgira flour with water to form a smooth paste. Add to the pan and stir well.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Prepare the pakoras by mixing all dry ingredients with lukewarm water to form a thick batter. Drop spoonfuls of batter into hot oil and fry until golden brown.
6. Serve the Kadhi hot with crispy pakoras on top, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rajgira Chikki (Nutty Brittle)
A traditional Indian snack made with roasted amaranth seeds, sugar, and ghee, Rajgira Chikki is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any time of day. This crispy and nutty brittle is a popular favorite among children and adults alike.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rajgira (amaranth) seeds
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons ghee or unsalted butter, melted
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the amaranth seeds on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned.
3. In a large skillet, combine the toasted amaranth seeds, sugar, melted ghee or butter, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture forms a caramel-like consistency.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Pour onto a greased surface, such as a silicone mat or parchment paper.
5. Allow to cool and harden completely. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rajgira Kheer (Pudding)
Rajgira kheer is a popular dessert from North India, made with the nutritious grain amaranth, milk, sugar, and nuts. This creamy pudding is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rajgira (amaranth) grains
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon ghee or unsalted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Chopped nuts (almonds or pistachios)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rajgira grains and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the water and blend the soaked rajgira into a smooth paste using a blender or grinder.
3. In a large saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, ghee or butter, cardamom powder, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
4. Add the blended rajgira paste to the milk mixture and stir well.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the kheer thickens slightly.
6. Stir in chopped nuts.
7. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with additional nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rajgira Ladoo with Jaggery
Rajgira ladoo is a popular Indian sweet dish made with the goodness of amaranth flour, jaggery, and nuts. This recipe combines the nutty flavor of rajgira with the natural sweetness of jaggery to create a delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rajgira (amaranth) flour
– 1/2 cup grated jaggery
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1 tablespoon ghee
– Pinch of cardamom powder
Instructions:
1. In a pan, dry roast the rajgira flour over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until fragrant.
2. Add the grated jaggery and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns light brown.
3. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
4. Add the chopped almonds, ghee, and cardamom powder to the mixture. Mix well.
5. Shape into small balls or ladoos.
6. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Rajgira Dosa with Coconut Chutney
A popular South Indian dish, Rajgira Dosa is a gluten-free flatbread made from buckwheat flour, perfect for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity. Paired with a creamy coconut chutney, this recipe makes for a delicious and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
For the Rajgira Dosa:
– 1 cup buckwheat flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup lukewarm water
For the Coconut Chutney:
– 1 cup grated coconut
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
– Salt to taste
– Water as needed
Instructions:
1. Mix buckwheat flour, salt, and baking powder in a bowl.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a smooth batter.
3. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of the batter and spread evenly to form a dosa.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the edges start to curl. Flip and cook the other side.
5. For the chutney, blend grated coconut, chopped onion, minced garlic, tamarind paste, and salt in a blender until smooth.
6. Add water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
Cooking Time:
– Rajgira Dosa: 4-5 minutes per dosa
– Coconut Chutney: 2-3 minutes
Rajgira Pancakes with Banana
Start your day with a nutritious and flavorful breakfast by making these Rajgira pancakes, infused with the sweetness of ripe bananas. This recipe is perfect for those looking to add some excitement to their morning routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rajgira (amaranth) flour
– 1/2 cup mashed banana
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 egg, beaten
– Ghee or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine rajgira flour, mashed banana, and salt. Mix well.
2. Add milk, honey, and beaten egg to the mixture and stir until smooth.
3. Heat a non-stick pan with a small amount of ghee or oil over medium heat.
4. Using a ladle, pour a portion of the batter onto the pan and spread it evenly to form a pancake.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the surface is dry and the edges start to curl.
6. Flip the pancake and cook for another minute.
7. Repeat with the remaining batter.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of pancakes)
Rajgira Khichdi with Vegetables
Rajgira khichdi is a traditional Punjabi dish made from the ancient grain amaranth, also known as rajgira. This recipe combines the nutty flavor of amaranth with sautéed vegetables for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup amaranth (rajgira)
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
– 1 green chili, chopped
– Salt, to taste
– Ghee or oil, for cooking
Instructions:
1. Rinse the amaranth and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the amaranth and cook it with 2 cups of fresh water until it’s soft and mushy.
3. Heat ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, grated carrot, diced potato, and chopped green chili. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the cooked amaranth to the pan with the vegetables and mix well. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Rajgira Sabudana Vada
A popular Gujarati snack, Rajgira Sabudana Vada is a delicious and easy-to-make treat that combines the nutty flavor of ragi (also known as amaranth) with the crunchy texture of sabudana (sago). This recipe yields crispy and flavorful vadas that are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ragi flour
– 1/2 cup sabudana
– 1/4 cup chopped onions
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon oil
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together ragi flour and sabudana.
2. Add chopped onions, cilantro, salt, and baking powder to the mixture.
3. Gradually add water to form a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each into a vada.
5. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the vadas until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rajgira Thalipeeth (Spiced Flatbread)
A traditional Maharashtrian flatbread, Rajgira Thalipeeth is a flavorful and nutritious breakfast or snack option. This recipe uses amaranth flour as the base, which is rich in protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rajgira atta (amaranth flour)
– 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon fennel seeds
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rajgira atta, whole wheat flour, salt, baking powder, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, and fennel seeds.
2. Gradually add water to form a soft dough.
3. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
6. Cook the thalipeeth for 30-45 seconds on each side, until they are lightly browned and crispy.
7. Brush with ghee or oil and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Rajgira Moong Dal Chilla
A popular breakfast dish from North India, Rajgira Moong Dal Chilla is a nutritious and flavorful pancake made with amaranth flour, moong dal, and spices. This recipe is perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick and healthy start to your day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rajgira (amaranth) flour
– 1/2 cup moong dal (split green gram)
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together rajgira flour and moong dal.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and cumin seeds. Mix well.
3. Gradually add water to form a thick batter.
4. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat.
5. Pour 1/4 cup of the batter onto the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the edges start to curl.
6. Flip and cook for another minute.
7. Serve hot with a dollop of yogurt, chutney, or your favorite topping.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes per batch
Rajgira Poha (Flattened Rice Snack)
A classic Indian snack that’s crunchy, flavorful, and easy to make! Rajgira Poha is a popular breakfast or mid-day treat that’s perfect for any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups flattened rice (poha)
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup ghee or oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Chopped nuts or dried fruits for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the poha in a fine mesh sieve until it’s lightly soaked.
2. Heat the ghee or oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the sugar, salt, and cardamom powder to the skillet and stir until the sugar dissolves.
4. Add the poha to the skillet and stir constantly for 5-7 minutes, or until it’s crispy and golden brown.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
6. Garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruits, if desired.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rajgira Chakli (Savory Spiral Snack)
Rajgira chakli is a popular savory snack from India, made with the nutritious grain amaranth (rajgira) and a blend of spices. These crispy, flavorful spirals are perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup amaranth flour
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1/2 teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain)
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine amaranth flour, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda.
2. Add ghee or oil and mix until the dough comes together.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each portion into a spiral.
5. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry the chaklis until they are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Remove the chaklis from oil and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rajgira Besan Barfi
Rajgira besan barfi is a popular Indian sweet dish made with amaranth flour, gram flour, and nuts. This recipe is a twist on the traditional besan barfi, adding the nutritional benefits of rajgira (amaranth) to the mix.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup amaranth flour (rajgira)
– 1/2 cup gram flour (besan)
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup ghee or oil
– 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Chopped nuts (almonds or pistachios) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Mix together the amaranth flour, gram flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add ghee or oil to the mixture and knead until it forms a dough.
3. Shape the dough into small squares or rectangles.
4. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and cook the barfi for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Remove from heat and let cool.
6. Garnish with chopped nuts and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rajgira Sprouts Salad
A refreshing and nutritious salad made with the goodness of rajgira sprouts, perfect for a quick snack or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rajgira sprouts
– 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped tomato
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rajgira sprouts and drain well.
2. In a large bowl, combine the sprouts, cucumber, tomato, and red onion.
3. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top.
4. Squeeze the lemon juice over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of Rajgira, a gluten-free and nutritious ingredient! This article presents 20 delicious and healthy recipes that showcase its potential. From sweet treats like Rajgira Sheera (Amaranth Halwa) and Rajgira Ladoo with Jaggery to savory delights such as Rajgira Paratha with Yogurt Dip and Rajgira Khichdi with Vegetables, there’s something for everyone. Learn how to make Rajgira Panki (Crepes), Rajgira Roti with Ghee, and many more mouth-watering dishes that are perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. Get creative in the kitchen and explore the wonderful world of Rajgira recipes!
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