Winter brings a lot of leafy greens to the farmer’s market which people buy selectively because they don’t know how to cook them. Incorporating them in your diet not only will make it rich in nutrients but your body will develop immunity and stay warm while the mercury drops.
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Apart from saag, these greens can be used to make crispy snacks that are healthy and complement the spicy taste of masala chai. If you have kids at home, these snacks will also appeal to their taste buds, and they would hop on the leafy green wagon to incorporate it into their meals without throwing tantrums.
Beet Fritters
Instead of using beetroot, use its leaves. Many people discard beetroot leaves by considering them as waste but they are nutritious and delicious. You can chop them and mix them with a batter of chickpea flour, spices, and rice flour. Keep the consistency thick and deep-fry fritters. You can also add small balls to an air-fryer and enjoy crispy snacks.
Collard Green Rolls
Collard green rolls are delicious and versatile. Often steamed, they are a perfect snack that can be paired with chutney or served on a bed of creamy and lip-smacking coconut or tomato-based gravy. Depending on your choice, you can choose potatoes, paneer, lentils, or even meat for the filling. If you want to keep the rolls crispy, air fry them or deep-fry.
Sarson Ka Saag Chips
If you have children at home who refuse to take a bite of sarson ka saag or don’t cherish leafy greens in winter, this easy recipe with a simple hack is for you. Keep the consistency of sarson ka saag thicker than what it should be. Spread a silicone mat on a baking tray and spread a thin layer of the saag. You can also top it with some Italian seasoning before baking until it is dry and crispy like papad. This can be made using leftover saag.
Palak Pakoras
Palak pakora is a traditional Indian recipe that adds leafy green to the winter diet. Rich in vitamins C, A, K, and E, fritters are the best way to make palak a part of every meal. Start by washing and chopping palak. Combine it with besan, salt, red chilli powder, and chopped onions. Keep the batter thick and place small balls in the air fryer. Brush oil on the fritters and bake them until crispy.
Kale Chips
Head to the farmer’s market and get kale if you haven’t yet because you do not know a good recipe to use this fibre, folate, and vitamin-rich vegetable. Remove the thick stem by slicing it with a sharp knife. Sprinkle some salt and brush with oil before sliding the leaves in the oven. In no time, crispy chips will be ready to be served with ketchup or chutney.
Spinach Cheese Cigars
Imagine a cigar-shaped snack featuring a flaky crust and melted cheese inside. Sounds irresistible isn’t it? This delight is also easy to make, and you can avoid deep-frying if you have an air fryer. Keep spring roll sheets in your freezer and stuff them with a creamy mixture of chopped spinach and cheese. Seal the edges with maida slurry and bake until crispy.