It is that time of the year again when the day starts to shorten and mornings and evenings turn a little chilly, but you struggle to decide if it’s time to take out the sweaters yet. Winters are almost here, and while we are getting ready to make the most of it, the risk of us catching a cold or getting affected by cough and a sore throat is also high. Ever wondered why this happens? Well, this is caused by a weakened immune system during the changing weather conditions around us. It is, therefore, recommended that you consume plenty of foods that boost your immunity.
To combat this seasonal illness, we've heard and tried a variety of home remedies, including turmeric milk, spiced water, and kadha among others. If you are also a believer of ‘dadi-nani ke nuskhe’ to avoid the seasonal flu, we’ve got two candy recipes that may help keep the winter sickness at bay.
Honey Ginger Candy
The combination of honey and ginger is known to be a magical one, which can help to keep you warm while also providing your body with essential nutrients. To prepare this, all you need is some basic kitchen essentials such as ginger, honey, sugar, and cinnamon powder. Besides being effective for cold, cough, and flu, this candy will also aid in your digestive problems.
How to make ginger and honey candies at home:
- Take a large ginger and peel its skin.
- Roughly chop it with a knife, and then grind it with a little water.
- Now heat a pan with a cup of sugar, water, and the ginger paste.
- Stir it continuously until the sugar dissolves.
- Then, add about 1/4 cup honey and 1/2 tsp cinnamon powder.
- Keep stirring on a medium flame.
- Once it starts boiling, add lemon juice from half a lemon.
- Stir again until a thick consistency.
- When done, pour the prepared mixture on a butter paper, 1/2 tsp at a time, one by one.
- Set aside for a few minutes, and your candies will be ready.
2. Besan Sheera Candy
Besan ka sheera is an age-old recipe from Punjab, which boasts the goodness of turmeric, ghee, and black pepper, combined with roasted besan. While the sheera is of a semi-thick, beverage-like consistency, we have turned it into yummy candies. It comes loaded with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which help boost the absorption of nutrients, promote gut health, and may even give relief in pain. Turmeric is also high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that may aid the body to fight cold and cough. You can also add sugar or jaggery to make it tasty.
How to make besan sheera candies at home:
- Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed non-stick pan.
- Then, add the besan and roast it until it turns golden and aromatic.
- Slowly add in warm milk and whisk well to avoid lumps.
- Now, add the turmeric, ground pepper, cardamom powder, and grated jaggery. Mix well.
- Whisk it for 5 minutes until the sheera thickens.
- Once done, pour the sheera on a butter paper, 1/2 tsp at a time, one by one.
- Set aside for a few minutes, and your candies will be ready.