Expert reveals healthy vegan tiramisu recipe using ragi flour

For those with a persistent sweet tooth who refuse to compromise their fitness goals, the search for a 'clean' dessert often ends in disappointment.

However, model and actor Vandana Pandit Nidadavolu shared a 'vegan, gluten-free, refined sugar-free tiramisu' recipe on Instagram on 14 March.

The recipe provides a nutrient-dense alternative to the classic Italian dessert by replacing heavy mascarpone and processed sugars with ragi flour and a cashew blend.

The 'healthier' biscuit base

Traditional ladyfingers are replaced with a version using ragi flour, a millet known for high calcium.

• 1 ripe banana
• ½ cup ragi flour
• ¼ tsp baking powder
• Water (to adjust consistency)

"Mash the banana well," Vandana instructs. Add ragi flour and baking powder. Add water gradually until a smooth batter forms. "Pipe or spread the batter onto a lined baking tray in finger shapes." Bake at 180°C for 15 minutes.

Ingredients and instructions for cashew cream

• ½ cup cashews (soaked in hot water for 20 minutes)
• 3 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• ½ tbsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp vanilla essence
• A pinch of salt

Blend everything until smooth and creamy. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Assembly

• ½ cup espresso or strong instant coffee
• Cocoa powder for dusting

Dip the biscuits lightly in coffee. Layer biscuits and cashew cream in a bowl. Repeat the layers and finish with a dusting of cocoa powder. Refrigerate for at least 60 minutes before serving.