Finger millet, popularly known as Ragi, is one of the most widely consumed millets in India. This ancient grain has been cultivated for centuries in dryland farming regions and has been an important part of traditional diets across many states.

In Maharashtra, finger millet is commonly known as Nachni, while in Karnataka it is widely called Ragi. The grain is also consumed in several other regions under similar names and forms a key ingredient in traditional foods.

Ragi has historically been used to prepare a wide range of dishes such as bhakri, porridge, malt, and millet-based flatbreads. Because of its versatility, it can be used both as a whole grain or ground into flour for cooking.

Millets like finger millet are well suited to dryland agriculture and have been cultivated by farmers in rainfed regions for generations. Today, finger millet continues to be used in many traditional and modern recipes as people rediscover diverse whole grains.

KEY FEATURES

• Traditional millet grain
• Widely used in Indian cooking
• Suitable for making flour, porridge, and flatbreads
• Naturally gluten-free grain
• Versatile ingredient for traditional recipes

HOW TO USE

Finger millet can be used in many everyday dishes:

• Grind into flour to make nachni bhakri
• Prepare ragi porridge or malt
• Use in millet dosa or idli batter
• Add to multigrain flour blends
• Cook as a grain or use in traditional recipes

INGREDIENTS

100% Whole Finger Millet (Ragi)

FAQ

What is finger millet?

Finger millet is a traditional millet grain widely grown in India and Africa. In India it is commonly known as Ragi, while in Maharashtra it is often called Nachni.

What is finger millet used for?

Finger millet is used in many traditional dishes including nachni bhakri, ragi porridge, malt, dosa batter, and millet-based foods.

What is finger millet called in Maharashtra?

In Maharashtra, finger millet is commonly known as Nachni. It is often used to make nachni bhakri, a traditional flatbread.

Can finger millet be eaten daily?

Finger millet can be included as part of a balanced diet and used alongside other grains such as rice, wheat, and other millets.

How do you cook finger millet?

Finger millet is often ground into flour and used for flatbreads or porridge. Whole grains can also be soaked and cooked depending on the recipe.