WINTER FOOD INDULGENCES

…and their nutritional benefits.

13th December, 2019

1. Chicken Soup:

Hot chicken soup is truly one for the soul, and most-sought after during the cold winters. Rich in protein, this bowl of goodness helps boost your immunity, keeping you wel- hydrated and protected from that dreaded winter flu. The glucosamine and gelatin from the bones improve the gut lining and reduce inflammation, while the carnosine helps  relieve congestion.

2. Sarson ka Saag & Makki di Roti:

Winters in North India are usually harsh, hence some calorie-dense nutritious foods are required to stay fit. Mustard leaves and other fibre, vitamin C and iron -rich greens (methi, bathua and the like) are cooked together with spices like ginger, garlic and chillies providing enough heat, while the fat from the oil/ghee provide lubrication to stay warm in the winters.

3. Nuts:

Nuts provide enough fat insulation to generate body heat. Rich in magnesium and antioxidants, they elevate mood and keep skin healthy. Combine with flour, ghee and winter special ingredients like gond (edible gum) or methi and enjoy several health benefits, including keeping joint aches at bay.

4. Sweet Potatoes:

Warm roasted sweet potatoes contain twice the amount of fibre compared to the regular white variety. High in starch, they are known to boost energy. In addition, vitamins C, D and iron they contain help strengthen immunity. Eat them as a snack or along with veggies in your soup…. they are super versatile!

5. Gajar ka Halwa:

Yummy red carrots are turned into delicious dessert during winter in most Indian households. Rich in vitamins A and C as well as fibre, this dish helps with digestion and enhances eye health and skin glow. The milk and nuts in the halwa provide protein as well as the fat punch, whereas the ghee helps to keep joints in good health in the cold weather. Note: Too much sugar can sometimes outweigh the benefits provided by carrots and can be harmful. Limit the sugar in it and enjoy in right portions.

6. Undhiyu:

Made with seasonal vegetables like potato, sweet potato, purple yam, green garlic, fresh coconut, green chilly and other spices cooked in oil, this is a hot favourite dish in Gujarat. In villages, it is cooked in small matkas underground with lots of dry leaves. Root vegetables are a great source of soluble and insoluble fibre, required for the good health of gut bacteria. The oil is good for the absorption of fat soluble vitamins. There are certain fried items like muthiya added to it, so eat this delicacy in small portions to get the benefit of all nutrients.