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Finger Millet (Ragi) and Flaxseed Loaf

Slow Fermented Bread with Millets and Flaxseeds

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • Dry ingredients:
    1. Active dry yeast: 2 tsp
    2. Breakfast sugar: 1 tsp
    3. Millet flour: 1 cup
    4. Tapioca starch: ¾ cup
    5. Brown rice flour: ½ cup
    6. Flaxseed meal: ½ cup
    7. Salt: 1 tsp
    8. Puffed Amaranth: 2 tsp
    9. Sunflower seeds: 2 tsp
    10. Flaxseeds: 2 tsp

  • Wet ingredients:
    1. Water: 1 cup
    2. Eggs: 2
    3. Cold-pressed Oil: 3 tbsp
    4. Honey: 2 tbsp
Methods

Methods

Ragi and Alsi, prominently known as finger millet and flaxseed, are nutritious superfoods. For ages, ragi has been a part of our diet in the form of cereal, while flaxseeds have been taken as is. That said, wholegrain consumption in the form of bread has seen a gradual rise over the years. Rightly so, bread with millet and flaxseed is high in fibre and protein, making it a great addition to your diet. Finger millet loaves are versatile and can be paired with a variety of veggies or even had as is on a busy day, thanks to their nutty flavour. Crafting the perfect finger millet flaxseed loaf is easy with the recipe below. It is sufficient and serves about 3–4 people, making it a definite try if you like to save time. This nutrient-rich finger millet loaf is a filling breakfast option to spruce up your day.

Step-by-Step Recipe of Finger millet and Flaxseed Loaf

Here’s an easy to follow guide to start baking your own finger millet flaxseed loaf:

    Step 1: Proof the yeast by mixing the yeast, sugar and warm water in a small bowl or measuring cup. It will begin to get frothy after about 10 to 15 minutes.

    Step 2: Combine the millet flour, tapioca starch, brown rice flour, flax meal and salt in a medium bowl.

    Step 3: In a large bowl, mix eggs, oil, and honey. Add the yeast/water mixture. Stir in dry ingredients and mix until fully combined.

    Step 4: Transfer the dough to a 9-inch x 5-inch greased loaf pan.

    Step 5: Cover the pan with a warm wet towel and let the dough rise. It should take between 45 and 90 minutes for the dough to reach the top of the pan.

    Step 6: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.

    Step 7: When the dough has risen to the top of the loaf pan, garnish with the seeds and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The loaf should rise a bit more while baking and the top should be well-browned.

    Step 8: Cool on a wire rack before removing from the pan.

Slice it in pieces once cool. Your finger millet flaxseed loaf is ready to be served!


Health Benefits of Finger Millet and Flaxseed

Besides being gluten-free, finger millet and flaxseeds have impressive benefits when included in our diet. Both of these ensure and promote health with their antioxidant, anti-diabetic and anti-cancer properties.

They are high dietary fibre, plant-based foods that are also gluten-free. Foods like bread made with millet and flaxseed are great options for individuals with gluten-related disorders like Celiac disease, gluten intolerance and wheat allergy.

Abundant sources of calcium, finger millets are excellent for maintaining healthy bones in developing children and adults. They are beneficial in regulating blood sugar levels. This makes the grain an excellent food option for diabetics. Regular consumption of finger millet can reduce the risk of ageing, metabolic diseases and many others.

On the other hand, flaxseeds are great sources of essential fatty acids like omega 3. It also contains flavonoids, lignan and phenolic acids that help combat cardiovascular diseases, memory loss and stress.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

The finger millet flaxseed loaf can be enjoyed simply with a dollop of butter on it. Its dense texture pairs well with sandwiches. We recommend toasting the bread and enjoying it with a slather of almond butter and fresh avocados.

Since finger millet is quite versatile, you can add bananas or any contemporaries to bake a sweet treat dessert. You can also play around with the recipe, such as adding nuts, seeds, or spices to create your own unique mix.

If you aren’t one for a sweet tooth, making a classic cheese and veggies sandwich or an egg one for some extra protein can be your go-to. With a homemade flaxseed loaf bread, the possibilities are truly endless.

Conclusion

This finger millet and flaxseed loaf can be a perfect nutrient-rich and refreshing addition to your diet. It’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties are enough to encourage you to bake your own. With the recipe as a base, allow your inner baker to take charge and develop a loaf of bread that is wholesome and nourishing. Create your own finger millet flaxseed loaf today!