Chutney is a staple part of a typical Indian meal. No matter if it's a simple meal of dal and roti or a lavish one, a dash of chutney can instantly elevate the taste and experience. There are so many delicious chutney recipes to try ranging from a refreshing mint-coriander chutney to a zingy peanut chutney. And we can pair them with countless snacks, enjoy them with parathas, or even use them as dips with chips! But did you know that these chutneys can not only improve the flavour of your meal but also provide an instant boost to your health?
Well, it may sound unbelievable, but the humble chutney actually has plenty of health benefits to offer. Here are a few that you should be aware of:
1. For Healthy Digestion
Most chutneys are made from raw ingredients and thus have plenty of fibre content. This aids in the digestion process and also smooths bowel movements. Chutney is known for being light on the stomach and having a lot of flavour. This could be a good reason to look forward to your meals, too! Chutneys made with walnuts, peanuts, apples, or peas further amp up the fibre quotient in your diet.
2. Helps Detox
Loaded with antioxidants that protect the body from damaging free radicals, chutney can also help detox. Fresh herbs like coriander, mint, and curry leaves, along with spices such as mustard seeds, turmeric, and chillies, can be a great addition to your detox diet.
3. For Good Skin
Contrary to the belief that spicy or pungent chutneys can dull the skin, they may actually be the key to achieving a radiant complexion. Depending on the ingredients and method you choose to prepare it, chutney can be enriched with the goodness of vitamins and minerals.
4. Rich In Iron
Our grandmothers have definitely told us this one! Chutneys made with coriander, curry leaves, and even spinach can provide the body with a good amount of iron. This can also help improve cardiovascular health.
5. Boosts Immunity
The abundance of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in chutney may help boost immunity. You can use ingredients that are rich in Vitamin C—a dash of lemon juice, a tomato, raw mango, or even guava. All these ingredients can be an excellent way to get a dose of immunity during the day.