As the cricket fever takes over and the sound of leather on wood fills the air, it's time to gear up for the Cricket World Cup with a twist - a healthy one! While the players battle it out on the field, you can indulge in some delicious, guilt-free munchies to keep your energy levels up and your taste buds dancing.
Forget the heavy, calorie-laden snacks that usually accompany cricket viewing. It's time to embrace a spartan yet fun approach to snacking. We're talking about scrumptious nibbles that not only please your taste buds but also keep you feeling light and energetic throughout those nail-biting matches. Sports and snacking go hand in hand, but that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your health goals. Instead, you can opt for snacks that are packed with nutrients, lower in calories, and bursting with flavour.
So, as you gear up to support your team in the Cricket World Cup, remember that you can enjoy every moment without compromising on your health. These light, spartan, and fun healthy snacks are your partners in cricket-watching crime, ensuring you stay fit and energised while the matches unfold. Let the cricket madness begin, and let the snacking games commence!
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Sprouted Moong Chaat:
Chaat can be more than just pani puri. Introduce an element of health with a protein-high, moong chaat. Sprouted moong beans are a rich source of nutrients. To make this snack, you can toss sprouted moong beans with chopped onions, tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime juice. Sprinkle some chaat masala for added flavour. It's a crunchy, protein-packed snack that's low in calories.
Multigrain Khakhra:
A classic Gujarati snack food, khakra is a thin, crispy flatbread that comes in a multitude of styles and flavours. Opting for multigrain khakhra, made from a blend of whole grains, adds a nutritional boost to your snack. It's usually flavoured with spices like cumin and can be enjoyed on its own or with a healthy dip like hummus.
Paneer Tikka:
Paneer is a good source of protein. To make paneer tikka, marinate cubes of paneer in a mixture of yoghurt and spices like ginger, garlic, and red chilli powder. Thread them onto skewers and grill or bake until they're golden and slightly charred. It's a tasty, protein-rich snack.
Bhel Puri:
The streetside classic, and any anytime winner, make some of your own signature bhel to be a hit during your next screening. Bhel puri is a popular street food made with puffed rice, chopped onions, tomatoes, and a tangy tamarind chutney. You can add sprouted moong beans and roasted peanuts for extra nutrition. It's a delightful combination of textures and flavours and is a smart way to add veggies in a snackable way.
Roasted Chickpeas:
This delicious legume is good for more than just chole. Chickpeas are a great source of protein and fibre. Roasted chickpeas are easy to make and provide a delicious crunchy snack that’s naturally power-packed. To make roasted chickpeas, toss them with olive oil and spices like cumin, paprika, and garlic powder, then roast them until they're crispy. They make for a satisfying, crunchy snack.
Makhana:
Skip the popcorn this year because there’s a healthier version to sample. Makhana, or fox nuts are puffed lotus seeds that offer an airy, crunchy snack. They are low in calories and high in protein. You can roast them with a little ghee and sprinkle some chaat masala or any flavouring of your choice for a savoury twist. They are a guilt-free snack that's also gluten-free.
Palak Pakoras:
Instead of deep-frying, you can make healthier pakoras by air frying them. Combine chickpea flour with chopped spinach, onions, and spices. Coat them lightly in oil and cook until they turn crisp and then dust with chaat masala before serving. They’re a great way to sneak in some greens in a crunchy, delicious way.
Fruit Chaat:
For the fruit fans, a fruit chaat is a must. This medley of fresh fruits like apples, bananas, oranges, and pomegranate seeds is a level up from a regular fruit salad with a burst of unique desi flavours. Season it with a sprinkle of black salt and chaat masala. It's a sweet and tangy snack that provides vitamins and natural sugars.