We barely had enough of getting back to work before offices restarted work from home again. With people spending most of their time at home, we have resumed the all too familiar work-life balance where duties are divided into children’s playtime, household chores and work. With so many responsibilities to handle simultaneously, it is no wonder a person ends up getting exasperated. However, if there are some things we have learnt over the past two years, it is to find joy and happiness in small moments throughout the day.
Snacking is one such moment and a favourite Indian trend where people enjoy snacking many times a day, especially during meals. Managing both work and home can lead to a dip in energy levels, which is why snacks are consumed to boost energy. Let’s be frank, who can resist the sight of the fridge or snack cupboard every time one gets up to take a much-needed break from work. Taking a break to snack and refresh yourself can help you increase productivity in your day-to-day work.
According to a recent study by Mintel, most Indians snack at least twice a day —many of whom view snacks as an indulgent treat. Due to the frequency of snacking, what you snack on can be an essential aspect of your daily snacking habits. During these breaks, one can indulge in tasty, masaledar snacks like delicious masala oats, which can be prepped in no time, making them the perfect break-time snack to binge on.
Chef Kunal Kapur shares delicious snacks that do not require a lot of time to prepare
Power-Up Break
Masala Oats parantha is a delectable snack for your recharge session. It can be combined with a classic masala oats flavour, an excellent combination of chatpata flavours and melts in your mouth. Dice up some onions on the side to add to the mix, along with some olive oil, salt and pepper. This mouth-watering dish can be enjoyed with a homemade creamy dip to balance the spiciness. Then, pair it with some hot Kesar Pista Milk to soothe and warm you up, and help your mind get freshened up.
Evening Gupshup Break
The chatty one always makes time for a gossip session break and can enjoy the tanginess of Peppy Tomato in a Masala Oats patty. Vegetables like onions and peas and masalas like chilly, cumin, and pepper can enhance the flavour of whole grain oats. The dish can be had with a cold sauce and a classic masala chai with a mixture of aromatic herbs and spices on the side to relax and liven up your mood.
De-Stress Break
For the non-stop worker, an unwinding break is a must, and the veggie twist mixed gives a hot, creamy flavour and natural vegetables. Masala Oats bhurji can be given a makeover by including peas, carrots, and onions. Including chatpate masalas such as chilly, pepper, or coriander can be added to the oats mix to give a burst of flavour. This dish can be combined with the evergreen mint chutney to make the perfect go-to break time snack. Finally, concoct a ginger and jaggery tea to energize yourself for another work session.
Snacking can help us revitalize ourselves and clear up our thoughts. Sitting in front of our screens all day long can impact our efficiency. Hence, snacking is an essential part of the day. Be it the talker or the non-stop worker, this snack time breaks help us unwind ourselves with a bowl of joy. So make your snack breaks count! Saffola Masala Oats is an easy-to-make dish that can be prepared in no time. It comes in various flavours like Classic Masala, Peppy Tomato and Veggie Twist and includes natural vegetables and tasty masalas that’ll leave you wanting more!