Seasons in which certain fruits, vegetables, and meats grow are chosen. Foods that are abundant during the colder months are frequently considered to be winter foods. Eating seasonal produce guarantees that the food is fresher and more flavorful while also supporting local agriculture. Comfort food is prevalent during the winter months. During the colder months, hearty soups, green leafy vegetables, and casseroles offer a feeling of warmth and comfort. These foods are not only filling but also have a calming effect on the mind, making you feel cosy.
These ten recipes, each from a different part of India, will definitely warm you up in the winter:
1. Sarso Ka Saag: A traditional Punjabi dish from the Indian subcontinent known as "Sarso ka Saag" is especially well-liked in Pakistan's and India's northern areas. Made with mustard greens (sarson) and other leafy vegetables, it's a wintertime treat. Rich in calcium, iron, and the vitamins A, C, and K, mustard greens are an extremely nutrient-dense vegetable. The dish, which goes well with makki di roti (cornbread), is known for its rich, earthy flavours and is usually enjoyed in the winter when the body may need an extra boost of nutrients to fight the cold and support the immune system. Winter is the best time to find mustard greens, which are an essential component of Sarso ka Saag. These leafy greens are a mainstay of winter cuisine because they grow in colder climates.
2. Bajra Ki Khichri: A traditional Indian dish called "Bajra ki Khichdi" is made with lentils and pearl millet, or bajra. In many parts of India, bajra is a winter crop, and winter is the best time to find it. Using products that are in season guarantees freshness and promotes regional farming. Rich in fibre, iron, magnesium, and other vital minerals, bajra is a wholesome whole grain. The addition of lentils to khichdi transforms it into a satisfying and complete meal by providing a good source of protein. Warm grains like bajra are thought to have heating qualities that aid in keeping the body warm during the winter. Because of this, Bajra ki Khichdi is a warming and appropriate option for chilly weather.
3. Panjiri: A traditional Indian sweet dish known as panjiri has cultural significance, particularly during the winter and after childbirth. Its ingredients are selected for their nutritional value, and it is frequently connected to religious festivals. As a religious offering known as prasad, parangari is frequently given on Hindu holidays, particularly on Janmashtami, the day that honours Lord Krishna. In colder northern India, where winters can be severe, panjiri is a warming and invigorating dish. A range of nuts and seeds, including cashews, walnuts, melon seeds, poppy seeds, and almonds, are commonly used in panjiris. They provide protein, vitamins, minerals like iron, and healthy fats. Depending on the recipe, sugar or jaggery may be used to sweeten panjiri. Although rich in nutrients and energy, panjiri should be consumed in moderation.
4. Gond Ke Ladoo: A classic Indian treat, gond ka ladoo is prepared with whole wheat flour (atta), clarified butter (ghee), edible gum (gond), and a variety of nuts and seeds. This dessert has nutritional advantages in addition to being a delectable treat with cultural significance.A resin called gond is made from the sap of some trees. It is high in carbohydrates and it has aata which also have carbohydrates,fiber and nutrients like vitamin B .The nuts used contain protein . Due to gond's well-known warming properties, Gond Ka Ladoo is especially well-liked in the winter. It is a soothing treat in colder weather because it is thought to give warmth and energy. During various Hindu festivals and ceremonies, gond ka ladoo is prepared and offered as prasad, or a religious offering.
5. Gajar Ka Halwa: Carrot halwa, or gajar ka Halwa, is a popular Indian dessert that is made with grated carrots, milk, sugar, ghee (clarified butter), and nuts and dried fruits as garnishes. This delightful sweet dish is valued for its variety of nutrients and cultural significance in addition to its delicious taste. In many places, the winter months are carrot's prime growing season. Made with fresh winter carrots, gajar ka halwa becomes a speciality during a particular season. In the winter months, the dish's warmth is especially appreciated. Carrots, the main ingredient, are a good source of beta-carotene, which is a precursor to vitamin A. Immune system, skin, and vision all depend on vitamin A. In addition, carrots contain fibre and other antioxidants.
Video Credit: Youtube/ Chef Ranveer Barar
6. Koraishutir Kochuri: Popular Bengali deep-fried pastry called korishutir kochuri is filled with a spicy green pea filling. When fresh green peas are in season in the winter, this delectable and festive dish is commonly savoured. The blast of traditional and authentic Bengali flavours comes from the aromatic spices combined with the stuffing of green peas. The kochuri has a unique flavour that is favoured by many because to the blend of spices.
7. Hyderabadi Mutton Shorba: Particularly in the cuisine of Hyderabad, India, Hyderabadi Mutton Shorba is a rich and savoury soup with cultural and culinary significance. Hyderabadi Mutton Shorba is a warming and comfortable dish. In cold weather, the hot liquid is a calming and reassuring choice because it warms the body from the inside out. A healthy balance of nutrients is provided by the combination of meat, veggies, and spices found in Hyderabadi mutton shorba. Its importance extends beyond the dinner table to festivities, customs, and the camaraderie that arises from sharing a meal.
8. Gajarachi Lonche: In Maharashtra, an Indian state, Gajarachi Lonche, or Carrot Pickle, is a beloved and well-liked winter treat. In India, winter is the ideal time of year for fresh, delicious carrots. Since carrots are in season, Gajarachi Lonche is traditionally made using the highest-quality produce. According to Ayurveda, the seasonings and spices used in Gajarachi Lonche, like red chilli powder and mustard seeds, have warming qualities. Eating these types of warming foods in the winter is supposed to help maintain internal balance and keep the body warm. The pickle's slightly sweet, tangy, and spicy flavour gives winter dishes body and character. It enhances the flavour of other winter dishes and serves to balance them.
9. Nolen Gurer Payesh: Known as "Nolen Gur" or date palm jaggery, Nolen Gurer Payesh is a classic rice pudding from Bengal. In Bengal, this dish is especially well-liked in the winter when fresh nolen gur is readily available. You can have Nolen Gurer Payesh warm or cold, based on your choice. If desired, garnish with more nuts and saffron threads. With its distinct flavour, Nolen Gurer Payesh is a well-liked Bengali dessert that perfectly embodies the spirit of winter. It is a great treat in winter. Mostly prepared for posh parbon in Bengal.
10 Undhiyu: Gujarat, in western India, is home to the hearty and aromatic winter dish known as undhiyu. Many winter vegetables, including yam, sweet potatoes, eggplant, fenugreek leaves, and surti papdi (cluster beans), are used to make undhiyu. Since winter is when these veggies are at their best, undhiyu is a dish that is best enjoyed during this seasons. In addition to being delicious, the vegetables used in undhiyu are also very nutrient-dense. They are an excellent source of fibre, vitamins, and other vital nutrients that are needed to keep one's health during the winter. This popular Gujarati dish honours the winter season and its bounty.