World Nutrition Week: Ragi Chocolate Cake For A Healthy Twist

Chocolate cake, a beloved dessert, delights taste buds worldwide. However, for a healthier twist during World Nutrition Week from 1-7 September, you can infuse it with the goodness of ragi flour. Ragi, a nutrient-dense millet, adds fibre, vitamins, and minerals to your cake. Simply replace a portion of regular flour with ragi flour in your favourite chocolate cake recipe. This alteration enhances its nutritional profile without compromising on taste. Indulging in this wholesome chocolate cake during Nutrition Week is a delightful way to satisfy your sweet cravings guilt-free. Here’s a ragi chocolate cake recipe generously shared by Chef Saloni Kukreja. 

Ingredients: 

107 gram cup Ragi flour  

100 gram Whole Wheat Flour 

164 gram Jaggery powder 

32 gram Cocoa powder 

1 tsp Baking Soda 

2.5 tsp Baking Powder 

¼ tsp Salt 

65 gram Melted butter 

102 gram Curd 

½ tsp Vanilla 

1 tsp Coffee Powder  

14 gram Vinegar 

176 gram Hot Water  

Chocolate Ganache: 

½ cup Chocolate 

6 tbsp Cream 

½ tbsp Honey  

1.5 tbsp Butter  

A pinch of Salt 

Method: Pre-heat the oven to 180C. Start by sifting the ragi flour and whole wheat flour along with some cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda and  salt - combine the sifted dry ingredients using a whisk. In a seperate bowl, add in the powdered jaggery, coffee powder with hot water - whisk and allow the jaggery to melt completely. Next, add in the melted butter, some vanilla essence & curd - whisk the wet ingredients. Add the dry ingredients into the wet mix in 2-3 parts & combine to form a smooth & lump-free batter. Transfer the batter to a greased & lined 6” inch-round baking tin. Bake the cake in a pre-heated 180C oven for 25-30 mins/ until a skewer inserted comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool down slightly & de-mould it carefully. Optionally, top up the cake with some chocolate ganache, chopped & roasted hazelnuts & some sea salt. Serve, Slice and Enjoy. 

Ragi Benefits 

Ragi flour, derived from finger millet, offers a plethora of health benefits. Packed with dietary fiber, it aids in digestion and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. Rich in calcium and iron, ragi promotes bone health and prevents anemia. This whole grain is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Ragi is also a great source of essential amino acids, making it a complete protein. Moreover, its high antioxidant content supports the immune system and prevents oxidative stress. Incorporating ragi flour into your diet enhances overall nutrition and contributes to a well-balanced and healthy lifestyle.